

Yi-Chun LinPh.D.Taiwan
Laser Materials ProcessingPublished
Dec 16, 2025
Asbestos-Containing Material Contamination
Asbestos-coating contamination creates removal difficulties because fibrous silicate insulation builds up on surfaces during applications. This layer forms through exposure and shows fibrous texture so it differs from smooth contaminants. On steel pipes, boilers, and concrete, it clings tightly and resists scraping, but laser cleaning works effectively by ablating fibers precisely without harming bases.
Safety Information
Critical safety data for laser removal operations
Fire/Explosion Risk
low
Toxic Gas Risk
low
Visibility Hazard
moderate
Required Personal Protective Equipment
Respiratory Protection
PAPR
Eye Protection
goggles
Skin Protection
full_suit
Hazardous Fumes Generated
| Compound | Concentration | Exposure Limit | Hazard Class | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crystalline Silica (as quartz) | 5 mg/m³ | 0.025 mg/m³ | carcinogenic | ⚠️ Exceeds Limit |
| Asbestos Fibers | 10 mg/m³ | 0.1 mg/m³ | carcinogenic | ⚠️ Exceeds Limit |
| Carbon Monoxide | 15 mg/m³ | 29 mg/m³ | toxic | ✓ Within Limit |
Ventilation Requirements
Air Changes Per Hour
12
Exhaust Velocity
0.5 m/s
Filtration Type
HEPA
Particulate Generation
Respirable Fraction
80%
Size Range
0.1 - 10 μm
Substrate Compatibility Warnings
- •Laser may aerosolize intact asbestos fibers without complete destruction
- •Thermal degradation may create respirable asbestos fibers from bonded ACM
- •Inadequate laser parameters may increase fiber release compared to wet methods

