| abstract |
A method of separating at least a first type and a second type of fibers that are entangled, the process comprising: na) heating the entangled fibers to a temperature lower than the melting point of the first type of fiber, but higher than the thermal decomposition temperature of the second type of fiber, for a time and at a temperature sufficient to thermally decompose at least a portion of the second type of fiber, rendering the fibers of the second type of fiber friable; and nb) applying mechanical force to the entangled fibers so as to liberate the first type of fiber from the friable second type of fiber. |