5 alternatives were identified and selected for testing. These were, Ethylene Glycol, D-Super Remover, Diethyl Carbonate, Isopropanol (70%), Dimethyl Carbonate, and Methyl Acetate. Aluminum C1020 alloy coupons were rated on a visual cleanliness scale, with 5 being completely dirty, and 1 being completely clean, with 3 coupons for each cleaner for experimental redundancy. Paint and Primer mixture provided by client were mixed in a 1:1 ratio and applied to the bottom section of the aluminum coupons as per industrial testing standard procedure. The coupons were then rated with the wet paint present to get dirty rating values. The coupons were then immersed in the cleaner such that the painted portions were completely submersed, and a magnetic stir bar was used to stir the solution for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes had passed, the coupons were removed and allowed to dry overnight. The following day, the coupons were once again rated for visual cleanliness, and the least effective options were eliminated for subsequent testing.
In conclusion, ethylene glycol, Isopropanol, and Dimethyl Carbonate were removed from further testing as they were the least effective options in this test. D Super Remover, Diethyl Carbonate, and Methyl Acetate were selected as cleaners for the next round of testing.