The harnessing of light energy for industrial and commercial applications has expanded enormously in the last 30 years, i.e. since the invention of the laser. In the surface preparation field, significant laser applications include surface divestment (coatings, corrosion and contamination), annealing and glazing. In many instances, widespread commercial implementation of laser surface processing is impeded by cost-effectiveness issues. A more efficient alternative is described, which employs xenon flashlamp (rather than laser) radiation for surface preparation. The results of xenon flashlamp processing are presented. In certain instances, post-irradiation surfaces exhibit improved coating adhesion and resistance to corrosion. Finally, an advanced pinchlamp source with potential applications in the field of nuclear decontamination is discussed.
