2134/861
Robert E. Litchfield
Robert E.
Litchfield
Gary Critchlow
Gary
Critchlow
S. Wilson
S.
Wilson
Surface cleaning technologies for the removal of crosslinked epoxide resin
Loughborough University
2006
epoxides
metals
adhesion
non-stick
Materials Engineering not elsewhere classified
Mechanical Engineering
2006-02-22 13:18:32
Journal contribution
https://repository.lboro.ac.uk/articles/journal_contribution/Surface_cleaning_technologies_for_the_removal_of_crosslinked_epoxide_resin/9234908
This study provides details of the use of laser ablation and sodium hydride cleaning processes for
the removal of crosslinked epoxide and other residues from resin transfer moulding (RTM) tool
substrates, as used in the aerospace industry. The requirement for removal of such contamination is
so that the mould can be re-used, following the subsequent application of an external release agent.
These tools are, typically, fabricated from steel, nickel or CFRP composite materials; this paper
focuses on the use of nickel substrates. The requirement to clean large surface areas quickly to
satisfy commercial restraints, compromises the degree of absolute cleanliness that can be obtained.
However, in applications where cleaning time is not a constraint, laser cleaning can be a very gentle
and efficient process; typically Nd:YAG lasers find application in this area. In contrast, high power
lasers are desirable for industrial scale applications where large areas need to be cleaned quickly. In
this instance pulsed CO2 lasers can be used. The use of sodium hydride was also found to be highly
successful in removing crosslinked organic contamination providing that suitable hard rinse and
drying operations were also carried out.