Qualification, Demonstration, and Validation of Non-Hazardous Solvent to Clean Composite Aircraft Components

Abstract

This project evaluated the compatibility of NAVSOLVE, a low-VOC/HAP-free cleaner, with common polymer matrix composites, adhesives, sealants, paints, and core materials individually and as assembled in aircraft structure. Completed tasks included: approved a new polymer/polymer matric composite (PMC) cleaner specification MIL-PRF-32597, "Cleaner, Polymer and Polymer Matrix Composite Material, Non-Aqueous, HAP-Free; qualified NAVSOLVE to the new specification through established mechanical test methodologies; measured the efficiency of removing hydraulic fluid from composite surfaces and from within core structure compared to existing cleaners; demonstrated cleaning and post-clean repair capability at multiple NAVY, AIR Force, and Army field sites; and documented processing steps for inclusion in depot specific Local Process Specifications (LPS) and Structural Repair Manuals (SRM). The project verified that long term exposure to NAVSOLVE did not degrade mechanical properties and/or repair capability of composites, adhesives and core materials used for fabrication of aircraft structures. Site demonstrations validated the ability of NAVSOLVE to be successfully substituted for current solvents called out in the respective depot procedures for cleaning and follow-on bonded repairs. NAVSOLVE effectively cleaned hydraulic fluid from honeycomb core without leaving a residue which could degrade the repair step. Savings are realized through reduced costs of hazardous waste disposal of current solvents and the increased ability to clean and repair contaminated composite parts resulting in reduced scrap rates and their associated disposal/replacement costs. Use of NAVSOLVE permits compliance with current and emerging federal and state clean air regulations and reduces the environmental footprint of scrapped parts that are currently buried in landfills.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 03, 2019
Accession Number
AD1217219

Entities

People

  • El-sayed Arafat
  • Ray Meilunas

Organizations

  • Naval Air Warfare Center

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Pollution
  • Aircraft Equipment
  • Aircrafts
  • Airframes
  • Composite Materials
  • Environmental Protection
  • Fighter Aircraft
  • Health Services
  • Material Degradation Processes
  • Materials
  • Materials Laboratories
  • Materials Processing
  • Materials Science
  • Materials Testing
  • Medical Personnel
  • Polymer Matrix Composites
  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science
  • Materials science

Readers

  • Environmental Engineering.
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
  • Reinforced Composite Materials