Organic Biofilm Deposits contamination on surface before laser cleaning
Ikmanda Roswati
Ikmanda RoswatiPh.D.Indonesia
Ultrafast Laser Physics and Material Interactions
Published
Dec 16, 2025

Organic Biofilm Deposits Contamination

Biological stains, they arise from algae, bacteria, and organic waste that accumulate and form adherent films on surfaces after prolonged exposure to moisture. This contamination, it stands out from mineral deposits by its bio-adhesive nature and irregular layering, thus clings variably—tightly on porous stones like limestone and loosely on smooth metals like stainless steel. Removal challenges stem from deep penetration and regeneration risks, yet laser cleaning succeeds through targeted ablation that vaporizes organics cleanly and preserves substrate integrity.

Safety Information

Critical safety data for laser removal operations

Fire/Explosion Risk
low
Toxic Gas Risk
moderate
Visibility Hazard
moderate

Required Personal Protective Equipment

Respiratory Protection
full_face
Eye Protection
goggles
Skin Protection
gloves

Hazardous Fumes Generated

CompoundConcentrationExposure LimitHazard ClassStatus
Carbon Monoxide50 mg/m³29 mg/m³toxic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Carbon Dioxide9000 mg/m³9000 mg/m³toxic✓ Within Limit
Acetaldehyde18 mg/m³45 mg/m³irritant✓ Within Limit
Formaldehyde2.5 mg/m³0.37 mg/m³carcinogenic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Acrolein0.5 mg/m³0.23 mg/m³toxic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)1.2 mg/m³0.2 mg/m³carcinogenic⚠️ Exceeds Limit

Ventilation Requirements

Air Changes Per Hour
12
Exhaust Velocity
0.5 m/s
Filtration Type
carbon

Particulate Generation

Respirable Fraction
70%
Size Range
0.1 - 10 μm

Substrate Compatibility Warnings

  • Thermal damage possible on heat-sensitive substrates
  • Potential for substrate discoloration with high laser power
  • Moist biofilm may cause steam generation and spattering