Abstract: A trash separator that sorts bottles and cans from other, non-recyclable refuse. This separator consists of a slide 4 with an inlet 1 for all refuse at the top and an outlet 3 for the refuse at the bottom. The refuse is separated because the size and weight of the bottles and the cans is such that they attain a higher velocity sliding down the slide than the other refuse. These faster moving bottles and cans are sent on a trajectory that lands them in a far receptacle 7 while the remainder of the refuse, which is slower moving, falls into the receptacle 8 that is closest to the terminal end of the slide. The apparatus is a molded plastic cover that sits atop the receptacles and can easily fit in the kitchen, garage, office or on a street corner. It is designed to make recycling more convenient, sanitary and enjoyable.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and system for classifying particulate matter wherein unclassified particulate is projected into a spiraling fluid stream passing through an annular classifying zone. The particulate is projected into the fluid stream from the inner boundary of the classifying zone and the particulate passes through the fluid stream according to the size or density of the particles thereby facilitating the classification of the particles. The fluid stream with the particulate entrained therein is separated into a plurality of annular streams at the end of the classification zone thereby separating the particulate into distinct size fractions.