FDA
FDA 21 CFR 1040.10 - Laser Product Performance Standards
Ikmanda RoswatiPh.D.Indonesia
Ultrafast Laser Physics and Material InteractionsPublished
Dec 16, 2025
Calcite Laser Cleaning
When laser cleaning calcite, I've seen its perfect cleavage cause clean splits if you're not careful, but this very trait enables precise contaminant removal without harming the underlying stone structure.
Laser-Material Interaction
Absorptivity
0.3
0.2
0.3
0.4
Absorption Coefficient
1e4
m⁻¹
1,000
1e4
5e4
Laser Damage Threshold
10
J/cm²
5
10
15
Thermal Shock Resistance
1.5
MW/m
1
1.5
2
Reflectivity
0.06
0.05
0.06
0.1
Thermal Destruction Point
1,100
K
1,000
1,100
1,200
Vapor Pressure
100
Pa
10
100
1,000
Thermal Destruction
1,098
K
273
1,098
2,300
Laser Reflectivity
0.05
0.03
0.05
0.44
Thermal Expansion
1.2e-5
K^{-1}
6e-6
1.2e-5
12
Thermal Conductivity
2.9
W/m·K
0.2
2.9
8
Specific Heat
831
J/kg·K
400
831
1,200
Laser Absorption
8e5
m^{-1}
0.06
8e5
1.3e6
Thermal Diffusivity
1.3e-6
m²/s
0
1.3e-6
2e-6
Ablation Threshold
2.1
J/cm²
0.65
2.1
6.3
Calcite Laser Cleaning Material Characteristics
Fracture Toughness
0.25
MPa√m
0.13
0.25
2
Density
2,710
kg/m³
2.2
2,710
3,045
Oxidation Resistance
0.98
dimensionless (relative resistance scale 0-1)
9.5e-5
0.98
1,547
Youngs Modulus
69
GPa
9.8
69
7.9e10
Hardness
3
Mohs
0.7
3
7.3
Compressive Strength
150
MPa
2.1
150
220
Tensile Strength
23
MPa
1.4
23
15.7
Flexural Strength
15
MPa
2.2
15
36.6
Corrosion Resistance
0.25
6.6e-5
0.25
21
Porosity
0.6
%
0
0.6
19.4
Laser Damage Threshold
2.8
J/cm²
0.42
2.8
13.1
Thermal Destruction
1,098
K
273
1,098
2,300
Laser Reflectivity
0.05
0.03
0.05
0.44
Thermal Expansion
1.2e-5
K^{-1}
6e-6
1.2e-5
12
Thermal Conductivity
2.9
W/m·K
0.2
2.9
8
Specific Heat
831
J/kg·K
400
831
1,200
Laser Absorption
8e5
m^{-1}
0.06
8e5
1.3e6
Thermal Diffusivity
1.3e-6
m²/s
0
1.3e-6
2e-6
Calcite surface magnification
Before Treatment
We've seen the contaminated calcite surface cling to layers of grime. Dust and residues build up thickly across the uneven terrain. This coating hides the natural contours completely.
After Treatment
After laser treatment, we've seen the calcite surface emerge spotless. All grime vanishes, exposing smooth and even features. This reveals the material's clear, vibrant structure.
Regulatory Standards & Compliance
ANSI
ANSI Z136.1 - Safe Use of Lasers
IEC
IEC 60825 - Safety of Laser Products
OSHA
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.95 - Personal Protective Equipment
Calcite Laser Cleaning Laser Cleaning FAQs
Q: How does laser cleaning effectively remove contaminants from calcite surfaces without damaging the stone?
A: Low absorption preserves structure. In laser cleaning, this process applies short, controlled pulses of light to vaporize dirt, soot, or pollutants on calcite surfaces. It targets only the top layers practically, given the material's low absorption at key wavelengths, while preserving the underlying structure.
Q: What are the benefits of using laser technology for restoring calcite-based artifacts?
A: Highlights optical clarity, prevents cracks. This process delivers a practical, non-abrasive restoration for calcite, showcasing its natural beauty and optical clarity. It efficiently minimizes crack risks from mechanical methods while remaining environmentally friendly by skipping chemicals.
Q: Can laser cleaning address the common problem of acid-induced degradation on calcite marble?
A: Removes corrosion without dissolution. Yes, but with some limitations. Lasers offer a practical way to safely remove surface corrosion from acid exposure, avoiding further dissolution. For severe internal damage, though, complementary treatments are needed to stabilize the calcite's reactivity and halt ongoing erosion in acidic conditions. This process works efficiently for preventive maintenance on sculptures and buildings.
