The objective of this project was to develop a novel non contact diagnostic technique for the determination of the chemical species present on the surface of metallic materials and composites. The use of atmospheric plasma techniques for the removal of contaminants was investigated. The performance of the novel non contact diagnostic technique was benchmarked based on conventional surface chemical analysis techniques (i.e. XPS), in addition to paint / sealant adhesion testing. It was planned to use LabVIEW software to facilitate real-time process control based on the output data provided by the non contact surface analysis technique.