Grazing-Angle Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy for Surface Cleanliness Verification
Theresa A. Hoffard · 2003
As part of the Surface Cleanliness Verification project, sponsored by the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program, the Naval Facilities Engineering Service Center conducted an investigation of grazing-angle reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy as a tool for online cleanliness verification at DOD maintenance and repair facilities. In the project's first year, the feasibility of grazing-angle reflectance FTIR was demonstrated in the laboratory for the detection of organic contaminant residues on reflective surfaces. In Years 2 and 3 this technology was transitioned from the laboratory into a portable field device capable of detecting organic and certain inorganic contaminants on reflective surfaces at very sensitive levels (< 1.0 microgram/sq cm). Examples of DoD applications where surface cleanliness is critical include coating, plating and bonding of aircraft parts; beaming refurbishment; and shipboard surface tile mounting. Visual inspection and water break testing are often inadequate to detect contamination that may cause subsequent bonding or fouling problems if not removed.