Transit scratchitti removal and glass resurfacing by controlled fire polishing

Shane Y. Hong, Seongchan Jun

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Graffiti vandalism in public transits systems and city neighborhood is a serious problem. While public transit authorities conquered paint or ink graffiti, a new type of graffiti vandalism emerged and prevails - the scratching/etching of polycarbonate and glass windows often referred to as "scratchitti". To solve this problem, an innovative approach was developed - controlled fire polishing, which incorporates a technique of localized softening and surface tension. Intensive heat is positioned near to the scratch marks on the glass panel. The heat melts a thin layer of glass into liquid, changing the glass's viscosity to a formable state. The glass is melted to a level close to the depth of the scratch, and allowed to cool down naturally. During the cooling process, the surface tension of the melted glass will even out the scratching indent. After cooling and without grinding or polishing it, the glass will be as even and smooth as it was originally. This environmentally benign, novel re-manufacturing process relieves the bothersome vandalism- permanent scratches on the glass surface. The process will enable the reuse of the damaged window/door and eliminate the otherwise waste by replacement new glass. It allows a better living environment for people, rid of the unpleasant and annoying etched graffiti vandalism.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 5th International Conference on Frontiers of Design and Manufacturing (ICFDM'2002)
EditorsD. Guo, D. Wang, Z. Jia, J. Wang, D. Guo, D. Wang, Z. Jia, J. Wang
Pages321-333
Number of pages13
Publication statusPublished - 2002
EventProceedings of the 5th International Conference on Frontiers of Design and Manufacturing (ICFDM'2002) - Dalian, China
Duration: 2002 Jul 102002 Jul 12

Publication series

NameProceedings of the 5th International Conference on Frontiers of Design and Manufacturing (ICFDM'2002)

Other

OtherProceedings of the 5th International Conference on Frontiers of Design and Manufacturing (ICFDM'2002)
Country/TerritoryChina
CityDalian
Period02/7/1002/7/12

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Engineering

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