An investigation into the feasibility and characteristics of using a 2.5 kW high power diode laser for paint stripping

The removal of paints from concrete surfaces using a variety of lasers has been well characterised over the past years, regarding wavelength effects and a variety of other processing parameters. In this paper the authors present work on investigating the suitability and characteristics of a 2.5 kW cw high power diode laser (HPDL) for the removal of chlorinated rubber (CR) and epoxy resin type paints from concrete and steel surfaces. The results are analysed in view of the use of the system for industrial paint removal in a variety of circumstances, but specifically for the use in a nuclear environment for decommissioning. Process characteristics, safety issues, as well as costing issues and various practical matters are discussed.