LIQUID/SUPERCRITICAL CLEANING WITH DECREASED POLYMER DAMAGE

摘要

The invention provides a cleaning method in which a solvent such as densified carbon dioxide can be used for rapid and efficient cleaning, but with decreased damage to solid components such as buttons. The method comprises contacting a substrate to be cleaned with a first fluid, removing the first fluid from contact with the substrate while replacing with a second fluid, and recovering the substrate substantially free of the first and second fluids and from the contaminant. The first fluid is a densified gas while the second fluid is a compressed gas. A preferred embodiment of the method includes the use of a pretreatment designed for compatibility with the densified first fluid.