Material Separation to Recover and Reclaim Valuable Materials

Cryogenic Material Separation is a process that exploits the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of different types of materials that make up a product. A simple example is jacketed copper wire that is clad in plastic (or other) insulating wrap. By utilizing cryogenic material separation, the contraction of frozen copper, coupled with the expansion of the bonded compound, can produce a sheer force that promotes separation of the two materials.

Precise time and temperature profiles are used to promote maximum separation. In many cases, the objective is to recover an underlying substrate or metal element that has been over-coated and/or bonded to an elastometric or insulating compound. Cryogenic material separation is ideal for thermoplastics (PVC, nylon, polyethylene, and polypropylene), thermosets (synthetic and natural rubbers etc.) and all metals.

Applications

Applications include high value precious metals recovery, recovery of steel reinforcements from oil well seals, removal of molded or bonded materials that have cured and were misapplied (or not in specification when applied) and waste stream separation.

Develop Your Own In-House Capabilities

When justified by volume and frequency, Nitrofreeze works with customers to develop custom tools and processes to support in-house material reclamation. We offer design & build services, along with installation and on-site training for your operators.

Solve Unique Challenges

While we have vast experience in cryogenic material separation and recovery, every application has its unique challenges. We encourage you to call us at (508) 459-7447 or email us at info@nitrofreeze.com for more information about our cryogenic material separation processes and services.