Laser paint stripping process emissions: Q-switched vs. pulsed Nd:YAG laser

E. W. Reutzel, J. M. Keay, C. A. Sills

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

    2 Scopus citations

    Abstract

    Laser removal of surface coatings is being considered as an "environmentally friendly" replacement for traditional solvent coating removal processes during the repair and refurbishment of composite helicopter main rotor blades. The process emissions produced during removal of an epoxy paint from this thin composite substrate using both a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser and a pulsed Nd:YAG laser were collected, analyzed, and compared. Particulate matter was collected and analyzed for concentration of various elemental metals. Vapor emissions were collected and analyzed for volatile organic compounds, CO, NO2, and nitrous compounds. The processed substrate and particulate emissions were evaluated under a microscope. The results provide insight into the different removal mechanisms exhibited by these two lasers, and demonstrate that choice of laser plays a role in the resultant process emissions.

    Original languageEnglish (US)
    Title of host publicationICALEO 2004 - 23rd International Congress on Applications of Laser and Electro-Optics, Congress Proceedings
    PublisherLaser Institute of America
    ISBN (Print)0912035773, 9780912035772
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 2004
    EventICALEO 2004 - 23rd International Congress on Applications of Laser and Electro-Optics - San Francisco, CA, United States
    Duration: Oct 4 2004Oct 7 2004

    Publication series

    NameICALEO 2004 - 23rd International Congress on Applications of Laser and Electro-Optics, Congress Proceedings

    Other

    OtherICALEO 2004 - 23rd International Congress on Applications of Laser and Electro-Optics
    Country/TerritoryUnited States
    CitySan Francisco, CA
    Period10/4/0410/7/04

    All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

    • Geochemistry and Petrology
    • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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