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

Printing Ink Residue Contamination

Ink-stains contamination, it arises from pigmented deposits of industrial printing, markers, and spray paint that adhere through solvent evaporation and penetration. This pattern distinguishes itself by irregular pigmentation and strong bonding, unlike uniform rust or dust layers, and on porous paper or cardboard, it seeps deeply while on durable steel or concrete, it forms tenacious surface films. Removal challenges include chemical resistance and substrate damage risk, thus laser cleaning excels as pulsed energy vaporizes stains selectively and restores material integrity without abrasion.

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

CompoundConcentrationExposure LimitHazard ClassStatus
Carbon Monoxide10 mg/m³29 mg/m³toxic✓ Within Limit
Carbon Dioxide900 mg/m³9000 mg/m³toxic✓ Within Limit
Volatile Organic Compounds50 mg/m³100 mg/m³irritant✓ Within Limit
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons0.5 mg/m³0.2 mg/m³carcinogenic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Formaldehyde0.5 mg/m³0.37 mg/m³carcinogenic⚠️ Exceeds Limit

Ventilation Requirements

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

Particulate Generation

Respirable Fraction
70%
Size Range
0.1 - 10 μm

Substrate Compatibility Warnings

  • Avoid laser cleaning on chlorinated polymer substrates to prevent phosgene gas formation
  • Test on inconspicuous area first - laser may discolor or damage underlying material
  • Metallic substrates may reflect laser energy creating additional safety hazards