a device for removing an information - bearing layer of an optical disc comprises a housing defining a first chamber and a second chamber , a mount to selectively mount an optical disc having an information - bearing layer adjacent the first chamber , a cutter within the first chamber , a drive mechanism operatively connected to the cutter , and a passageway between the first and second chambers . the cutter causes the information - bearing layer of the disc to form particulate matter , and the particulate matter is caused to move through the passageway into the second chamber . the resulting particulate matter has a particle size less than about 326 microns to meet the standards of the department of defense and nist for digital data destruction .