Modeling and optimization of the molten salt cleaning process

• Published in: Journal of cleaner production Vol. 68; pp. 243 - 251
• Main Authors: Long, Yangyang, Li, Jianzhi, Timmer, Douglas H., Jones, Robert E., Gonzalez, Miguel A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kidlington Elsevier Ltd 01.04.2014; Elsevier
• Subjects: Animal, plant and microbial ecology; Applied ecology; Applied sciences; Biological and medical sciences; Central composite design; Ceramics; Cleaning; Cleaning process; Conservation, protection and management of environment and wildlife; Environment and sustainable development; Exact sciences and technology; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Fused salts; Greases; Mathematical models; Molten salt cleaning; Optimization; Oxides; Pollution; Remanufacturing; Cleaning process; Molten salt cleaning; Central composite design; Remanufacturing; Salt; Pollution prevention; Cleaning; Sustainable development; Modeling; Optimization; Environmental protection
• ISSN: 0959-6526; 1879-1786
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2013.12.075

Molten salt cleaning is a very efficient and effective cleaning method for removing paints, oils and greases, ceramics, and oxide scales from the surface of metal substrates. Although this cleaning method has been used for decades, very limited research work can be found in literature to help remanufacturers in process modeling and parameter optimization. In order to fill the gap, the effects of molten salt on different types of metal substrates are investigated. The impact on the hardness and tensile strength of the substrates is studied. The relationship between the cleaning performances and processing parameters including salt ingredients and temperature, are explored. Finally, mathematical models are suggested to provide remanufacturers directions in selection of the optimal parameters for the molten salt cleaning process. •The potential damage effects of molten salt on metals are investigated.•The impacts of process parameters are analyzed with designed experiments.•Mathematical models are created for modeling the molten salt cleaning process.•The optimum parameter settings of the cleaning process are provided.