How Chemical Paint Stripper works? Vitarag Chemicals is a renowned manufacturer of PCR 01 Paint Stripper Chemical paint strippers work by employing strong chemicals to break down and dissolve paint, allowing it to be easily removed from surfaces like metal, wood, or masonry. Here's a general explanation of how chemical paint strippers typically function: 1. Chemical Composition: Paint strippers contain powerful chemicals designed to soften and dissolve paint. Common active ingredients include methylene chloride (dichloromethane), N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and various alkaline substances like sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. 2. Penetration: When applied to a painted surface, the chemical stripper begins to penetrate the layers of paint. The chemical formulation is designed to break the bonds between the paint and the underlying surface.