Abstract
We are currently developing a real-time, laser-based method to providein situ qualitative and quantitative assessment of hydrocarbon contaminants on metallic surfaces for surface cleaning verification. Many manufacturing techniques require the use of hydrocarbon lubricants that are removed from finished and intermediate products by techniques such as vapor degreasing and solvent cleaning. Not only is the cleaning process laborious and time consuming, commonly used organic solvents are toxic and generate expensive hazardous waste. A rapid surface analysis technique that differentiates hydrocarbons will mitigate these problems by allowing accurate assessment of the type and amount of surface contaminants throughout the cleaning process. The development of an on-line technique will eliminate the need to send process parts out to a separate laboratory, thereby eliminating processing delays. Overall, this will lead to improved alternative cleaning products and processes, and reduction of hazardous materials usage and handling.
© 2000 Optical Society of America
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