

Todd DunningMAUnited States
Optical Materials for Laser SystemsPublished
Dec 16, 2025
Graphite Deposit Traces Contamination
Graphite marks arise from carbon residues left by pencils, lubricants, or electrical contacts rubbing onto surfaces. These dark, powdery deposits stand out from rust or oils due to their conductive, non-adhesive nature that smears easily under pressure. On metals like steel or aluminum, they cling tightly yet vaporize cleanly with laser pulses, cutting removal challenges like residue buildup while preserving the base material.
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 | 100-500 mg/m³ | 9000 mg/m³ | irritant | ✓ Within Limit |
| Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) | 0.1-5.0 mg/m³ | 0.2 mg/m³ | carcinogenic | ✓ Within Limit |
Ventilation Requirements
Air Changes Per Hour
10
Exhaust Velocity
0.5 m/s
Filtration Type
HEPA
Particulate Generation
Respirable Fraction
80%
Size Range
0.01 - 10 μm
Substrate Compatibility Warnings
- •Avoid laser cleaning on painted surfaces containing lead or chromium
- •Ensure substrate is non-reflective to prevent laser reflection hazards
- •Verify substrate cannot produce toxic byproducts when heated

