Expeditionary Airfield Paint Marking and Rubber Removal System Navy SBIR FY2015.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2015.1 Topic No.: N151-022 Topic Title: Expeditionary Airfield Paint Marking and Rubber Removal System Proposal No.: N151-022-0316 Firm: Creare LLC 16 Great Hollow Road Hanover, New Hampshire Contact: Michael Barton Phone: (603) 643-3800 Web Site: http://www.creare.com Abstract: Expeditionary airfields (EAFs) are shore-based aviation support systems that are used by warfighters all over the world to rapidly launch and recover aircraft. EAFs are typically assembled on site using AM2 mats. Currently, AM2 mats are not reused because there is no existing procedure for removing the airfield paint markings or accumulated tire rubber. To reuse the mats, the paint markings and embedded tire rubber must be completely removed so as to restore the mat's frictional properties and eliminate confusion between old and new reflective airway paint markings, especially during night operations. Creare proposes to develop a self-contained and environmentally-friendly paint marking and removal system to refurbish the mats in the field. In Phase I, we will establish basic feasibility of our approach and will complete a preliminary design for a Phase II prototype. During Phase II, we will develop a prototype system and evaluate it in a laboratory setting and under real-world conditions. During Phase III, we will qualify the system for EAF mat refurbishment and prepare for commercial transition and sales. Benefits: The proposed technology will greatly reduce operational and logistical burdens associated with the deployment, operation, and maintenance of EAFs. Because rubber tire buildup compromises the EAF and its ability to safely launch and recover aircraft, our proposed system will also enhance warfighter and aviator safety. By rapidly and easily removing tire rubber buildup in the field, our proposed technology will reduce the likelihood for mishaps and hazards associated with reduced EAF mat friction. The proposed technology also has the potential for widespread use in commercial applications relating to the removal of paint markings from airfields and roadways. The proposed technology presents a substantial commercial opportunity as an alternative environmentally-friendly method for removing paint markings. Return