Brass Coating Removal contamination on surface before laser cleaning
Ikmanda Roswati
Ikmanda RoswatiPh.D.Indonesia
Ultrafast Laser Physics and Material Interactions
Published
Dec 16, 2025

Brass Coating Removal Contamination

Brass-plating contamination forms during alloy deposition for decorative layering on hardware. Impurities embed in the process, and create uneven films thus leading to flaky residues. This contamination, it distinguishes from uniform oxides through metallic sheen and strong adhesion that resists simple wiping. On zinc alloy, it spreads rapidly and bonds tightly so persists under exposure, while on steel, it flakes loosely after time passes. Removal challenges arise from persistent sticking, and mechanical scraping damages surfaces easily. Laser cleaning proves effective, as pulses vaporize layers precisely thus restore smoothness without harm.

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
gloves

Hazardous Fumes Generated

CompoundConcentrationExposure LimitHazard ClassStatus
Zinc Oxide5 mg/m³5 mg/m³irritant✓ Within Limit
Copper Oxide2 mg/m³0.1 mg/m³irritant⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Lead Oxide0.05 mg/m³0.05 mg/m³toxic✓ Within Limit

Ventilation Requirements

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

Particulate Generation

Respirable Fraction
70%
Size Range
0.1 - 10 μm

Substrate Compatibility Warnings

  • Laser parameters must be optimized to minimize substrate damage
  • Avoid excessive heat buildup that could alter base metal properties
  • Test on small area first to determine optimal settings