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Environmentally Safe and Effective Processes for Paint Removal

Paint removal and repainting of aircraft surfaces are required periodically during the operating lifetime of an aircraft.
Historically, paint removal has been achieved using chemical paint removal methods. These methods use materials which
contain toxic components and which create hazardous working conditions. These processes also generate large amounts of
hazardous waste from the chemicals used.
Alternative methods for aircraft paint removal that are environmentally safe are now being investigated within the NATO
nations. These processes include: Plastic Media Blasting and other abrasive blasting methods (Wheat Starch, Water Jet, Ice
Particles, Carbon Dioxide Pellets, Sodium Bicarbonate) as well as Thermal Decomposition Methods (Laser, Flash
Lamps/Carbon Dioxide).
In October 1992 the Structures and Materials Panel of AGARD held a workshop on Environmentally Safe and Effective
Processes for Paint Removal from aircraft. The purpose of the workshop was to review the state-of—thc—art of the new
technologies for paint removal and their effects on the properties of aircraft structural materials. The practicality of operation,
environmental effects, cost and process controls were also discussed in that these factors strongly influence the
implementation of alternate paint removal processes.
As a result of the workshop, it was decided to present 2) Lecture Series on Environmentally Safe and Effective Processes
for Paint Removal for aircraft. Two experts in the field (Dr. T. Foster and Mr. O, Malavallon) will present a series of lectures
on this subject. The lectures will cover in detail the principles of paint removal and various environmentally safe paint
removal processes including plastic media blasting and other abrasive blast removal methods as well as environmentally safe
thermal and chemical paint removal processes. The treatment of waste disposal and work on standardization of the various
alternate paint removal processes will also be.