Environmentally Safe Formulations and Protocols for Toxic DoD Hydrofluoric and Chromic Acid Process Replacement

Sentecor's proposed Phase II Project will develop the application of a novel deoxidizing and etching technology to remove soils and metal oxides that have been traditionally removed using hydrofluoric acid (HF). Sentecor's aqueous-based technology has been tested on brass, aluminum, titanium, Inconel and other super alloys with promising results. Sentecor's technology adaptation would: eliminate the need for HF, decrease associated health risks, reduce environmental and corporate/agency liability associated with HF use. This technology will reduce processing and disposal costs and increase process efficiency. Many military and aerospace articles must also be cleaned, deoxidized, and/or have the surfaces roughened prior to use or refurbishment. The deoxidizing and etching processes remove oxides that are brittle and cause fracture initiation and weldability/bonding concerns. Sentecor's proposed technology can be used to replace HF processes for military and commercial applications with simple disposal into municipal waste streams. This testing will develop the suitability of the technology as a process for typical military and aerospace materials such as titanium, high-strength steel, aluminum and Inconel. Testing will determine the best methods and applicability of this surface cleaning and preparation technology for DoD and commercial materials. Eliminating HF is a high priority for both the EPA and OSHA.