Lead-based paints are commonly used on steel substrates for opacity, reactivity, durability, lubrication, and corrosion protection purposes. Conventional sand blasting methods for removal of such paint coatings result in significant environmental problems and associated disposal costs. This research is directed toward establishment of an alternative technique namely a laser system for paint removal with considerations of minimum cost, pollution and hazards. Fundamental interactions between the laser beam and the paint will be investigated, such as ablation, spallation,and evaporation mechanisms.
