The offerer, Laser Technology, Inc., has developed a new, unique pulsed carbon dioxide laser system for the removal of paint. The technology should be readily adaptable to automated manufacturing processes where controlled spot cleaning of parts prior to on-line automated assembly is desired as well as in offline rework areas. Previous work by the applicant has demonstrated that pulsed laser systems will remove paint and other organic-based coatings without damage to the structures being cleaned and will simultaneously produce decomposition of the coating into relatively harmless and readily collectible and disposable materials. Phase I research will support the development of data required for the design of the point- of-delivery subsystem. The laser energy will pass through a lens a few inches away from the workpiece. Means must be devised to maintain a clean lens and to insure removal of waste products from the work area between pulses. The unknowns which must be determined in the subject research involve gas flow rates required in and around the delivery subsystem.The potential commercial application as described by the awardee: Pulsed lasers have demonstrated superior cleaning as shown by paint adhesion and corrosion protection studies. This work will demonstrate the applicability of this technology to the automated factory and other manufacturing operations.
