Microwave processing of polymeric coatings for guitar woods

Abstract

Microwave energy was used to cure polymer coatings on instrument-grade woods provided by Taylor Guitars for this study. A processing method was developed which included spray coating the polymer onto raw wood panels and pulling the coated panels through a 2.45GHz multi-mode microwave cavity by means of a low-power motor. Characterization and testing included dielectric property measurements, moisture content measurements, density measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and vibrational analyses. A comparison was conducted between samples created using the ultraviolet curing method currently used by Taylor and the microwave samples generated in this study. The results demonstrate that the microwave processing of polymeric coatings for guitar woods is feasible and produces beneficial results. SEM imaging shows enhanced interaction between the polymer and wood in the microwaved samples, which may create a stronger and more durable coating. Vibration testing shows microwave processing produced comparable damping results at half the coating thickness. This decreased coating thickness may lead to a more completely cured polymer, cost savings, and reduce emission during curing.