An Innovative Microwave Applicator for Paint Stripping

An effective removal of paint from many surfaces can result in increased safety and reduced maintenance cost for many systems. The ideal paint stripping system should; 1) easily strip paint from various structures, 2) allow safe operation and safe removal of paint hazardous by-products (e.g. lead paint dust), 3) not damage the surface, and 4) by simple and reliable for manual and automated operations. The objective of this project is the development of an innovative microwave applicator for paint stripping from various surfaces. The proposed applicator and the associated microwave generator will allow the development of a portable system for the removal of paint from composites, wood, and steel substrate. Other attractive attributes of the proposed system include; effective concentration of energy over surfaces with various surface profiles for the quick removal of paint, safe disposal of the processed by-products, safe operation, high efficiency, and easy handling and operation. The Phase I research will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed microwave applicator concept. Accordingly, the Phase I project will include; the design of the microwave applicator for effective concentration of energy at the surface, experimental evaluation of the applicator concept, design of the applicator safety features, and preliminary design of the applicator for the development during Phase II. The potential for extensive use by private, commercial, and governmental use. Examples of a broad-base usage include; abatement of lead paint from many structures, home remodeling, maintenance of aircrafts, ships, bridges, and vehicles.