The present invention relates to a domical structure capable of enclosing the majority of operational and structural elements of a waste-to-energy or waste processing facility. The domical structure according to the present invention improves the aesthetic appearance of the facility by enclosing the majority of the machinery, equipment and activities from outside view. The domical structure also reduces the cost of construction and operation by reducing the support structure and improving lighting and climate control. Domical structure according to the present invention also includes means for easily transferring waste and materials between different areas or processing portions of a waste-to-energy facility and for reducing downwash airflow characteristics associated with wind patterns in the wake of tall chimneys and rectangular structures.

An apparatus for removing recyclable or other selected items from a load of mixed trash. An identifier generating a non-visual identifying signal is secured to the item and is used in conjunction with sensor devices to locate the position of the item anywhere within the load of mixed trash, to control the movement of the load along a conveyor to an extracting device, to control the movement of the extracting device and the operation of the extracting device so as to remove the selected item from the load without human intervention and under automated control.