

Todd DunningMAUnited States
Optical Materials for Laser SystemsPublished
Dec 16, 2025
Graffiti and Spray Paint Contamination
Graffiti paint acts as a deliberate contaminant that spray artists apply to urban surfaces, where it quickly bonds through chemical adhesion and solvent penetration. Unlike everyday dirt or pollutants, it sets up deep into porous substrates while creating slick, resistant films on non-porous ones, turning removal into a significant challenge that often leaves behind stubborn stains. Laser cleaning tackles this effectively by vaporizing the paint layer precisely without damaging the base material, achieving a clean finish that traditional solvents struggle to match.
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
gloves
Hazardous Fumes Generated
| Compound | Concentration | Exposure Limit | Hazard Class | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon Monoxide | 5-50 mg/m³ | 29 mg/m³ | toxic | ✓ Within Limit |
| Carbon Dioxide | 900-9000 mg/m³ | 9000 mg/m³ | toxic | ✓ Within Limit |
| Benzene | 0.1-5 mg/m³ | 1.6 mg/m³ | carcinogenic | ✓ Within Limit |
| Toluene | 1-20 mg/m³ | 75 mg/m³ | toxic | ✓ Within Limit |
| Formaldehyde | 0.1-2 mg/m³ | 0.37 mg/m³ | carcinogenic | ✓ Within Limit |
| Hydrogen Chloride | 0.5-10 mg/m³ | 2.5 mg/m³ | corrosive | ✓ Within Limit |
Ventilation Requirements
Air Changes Per Hour
12
Exhaust Velocity
0.5 m/s
Filtration Type
carbon
Particulate Generation
Respirable Fraction
80%
Size Range
0.1 - 10 μm
Substrate Compatibility Warnings
- •Thermal damage possible on wood, plastic, or painted surfaces
- •Reflective surfaces may redirect laser energy
- •Moisture in substrate may cause steam explosion

