High-Speed Dual-Mode Missile Radome

Appliqu¿s have recently been developed as an alternative to traditional aircraft coatings. Potential cost reduction benefits include decreased weight, increased corrosion resistance, reduced hazardous waste, and lower health risks during application andremoval. The current method for appliqu¿ removal is hand stripping, which is only viable for field repairs. After four to six years of service, aircraft must be stripped of all coatings at the depot level. Studies indicate the adhesion of the appliqu¿sincreases significantly over a two-year period, appreciably increasing removal time. A method or process to maximize removal rate and minimize residual adhesive is required to achieve cost effective depot refurbishment. Texas Research Institute Austin,Inc. proposes the development of a method for complete and quick removal of the appliqu¿ and residual adhesive. During Phase I, a prototype apparatus and detailed drawings will be prepared and the removal efficency of the method will be evaluated. Anaccelerated aging of aircraft appliqu¿s will be carried out and the effect of aging on appliqu¿ removal will be determined. Temperature, humidity, and ultraviolet stresses will be used during the aging process.The new removal method will accelerate theintegration and acceptance of aircraft appliqu¿s for military and commercial aircraft. An efficient method for the large area removal of appliqu¿s could result in billions of dollars of cost savings in both the DoD and the commercial sectors by eliminatingcostly and hazardous painting and paint removal processes.