Different laser sources are available for laser cleaning investigations, including Q-switched Nd:YAG lasers (with variable repetition rate) and excimer lasers with pulse duration in the nanosecond domain and a continuous CO_2 laser. Different optical and opto-mechanical components for control and guidance of the laser beams to the sample are also available. Lateral and axial spatial resolutions are in the micrometre range. The characterization of chemical and physical effects induced upon laser treatment are assessed using different microscopies (conventional and non-linear optical modalities), laser based spectroscopies and other complementary analytical techniques.
Potential Results
Removal of unwanted layers present on different substrates of Cultural Heritage: optimization procedures (elimination without damage), identification of side effects and design of mitigation strategies.