PCB Oil Contamination contamination on surface before laser cleaning
Yi-Chun Lin
Yi-Chun LinPh.D.Taiwan
Laser Materials Processing
Published
Dec 16, 2025

PCB Oil Contamination Contamination

PCB-contamination arises from polychlorinated biphenyls leaking in electrical equipment, so it forms thin oily layers during long exposure. This contamination shows sticky persistence and chemical stability, distinguishing it from less adhesive oils because residues bond tightly without easy dissolution. On steel and concrete in transformer housings, it penetrates pores so removal challenges include deep embedding and environmental risks, yet laser cleaning ablates layers precisely without damaging substrates.

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
PAPR
Eye Protection
goggles
Skin Protection
full_suit

Hazardous Fumes Generated

CompoundConcentrationExposure LimitHazard ClassStatus
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)2.5 mg/m³0.2 mg/m³carcinogenic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Aldehydes (formaldehyde)1.8 mg/m³0.3 mg/m³carcinogenic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Carbon monoxide15 mg/m³29 mg/m³toxic✓ Within Limit
Particulate organics8.5 mg/m³3 mg/m³toxic⚠️ 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

  • Laser parameters must be optimized to minimize substrate damage and excessive fume generation
  • Incomplete combustion may increase PAH formation - ensure proper ventilation
  • Oil residues may create reflective surfaces requiring laser safety considerations