Microwave Applicator for Paing Stripping

Chemical and mechanical paint stripping methods can present health hazards and produce hazardous waste especially when lead based paints (LBP) are removed. The objective of this proposal is to investigate the design of a microwave applicator for more efficient and safer removal of paint. Substrates to be considered include wood, metal, masonry, and composites. The microwave applicator, power supply, safety systems, related engineering issues, and cost will comprise the details for the Phase I investigation. To achieve rapid heating of the surface layers and prevent damage to the substrate, both CW and pulsed microwave power systems will be considered. Safety will be guaranteed through the use of flexible shielding materials and sensors interlocked with the power supply. Because optimal applicator design depends on the microwave absorption of the substrate, arrangement and type of susceptors will be an important aspect of the study. In the case of LBP additional use of glass powder for lead vitrification will be investigated. There will be a subcontract to CEEAM Penn State for materials microwave characterization and assistance with applicator design. The final result of this proposed study is to deliver designs for a portable microwave device that will safely remove paint from a variety of structures.