Tin Plating Residue contamination on surface before laser cleaning
Ikmanda Roswati
Ikmanda RoswatiPh.D.Indonesia
Ultrafast Laser Physics and Material Interactions
Published
Dec 16, 2025

Tin Plating Residue Contamination

Tin-plating contamination, it arises from degraded coatings on electronic components and food containers, forming thin metallic layers that adhere tightly through oxidation and environmental exposure. This contamination, it distinguishes itself by soft, ductile texture unlike harder oxide scales, and behaves differently on steel where it promotes corrosion, on copper it accelerates tarnish, and on brass it induces uneven patina thus complicating uniform cleaning. Removal challenges stem from its persistence and risk of substrate damage, yet laser cleaning proves effective as precise pulses ablate the layer selectively and restore surface integrity without mechanical stress.

Safety Information

Critical safety data for laser removal operations

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

Required Personal Protective Equipment

Respiratory Protection
half_mask
Eye Protection
goggles
Skin Protection
gloves

Hazardous Fumes Generated

CompoundConcentrationExposure LimitHazard ClassStatus
Tin Oxide (SnO2)5-25 mg/m³2 mg/m³irritant✓ Within Limit
Metal Fume (Tin)1-10 mg/m³2 mg/m³irritant✓ Within Limit

Ventilation Requirements

Air Changes Per Hour
10
Exhaust Velocity
0.5 m/s
Filtration Type
HEPA

Particulate Generation

Respirable Fraction
70%
Size Range
0.1 - 10 μm

Substrate Compatibility Warnings

  • May generate higher fume concentrations if substrate contains lead or other alloying elements
  • Avoid laser parameters that cause substrate melting to minimize fume generation