Carbon Soot Deposits contamination on surface before laser cleaning
Ikmanda Roswati
Ikmanda RoswatiPh.D.Indonesia
Ultrafast Laser Physics and Material Interactions
Published
Dec 16, 2025

Carbon Soot Deposits Contamination

Carbon-soot contamination, it arises from incomplete combustion in engines and furnaces, thus forming black residue of fine particulates. This residue clings tightly and embeds deeply into surfaces, distinguishing itself from dust by resisting water and brushing, while on steel and concrete it alters texture and penetrates pores. Removal challenges include scratching risks and chemical residues, yet laser cleaning vaporizes soot precisely and preserves substrate integrity thus.

Safety Information

Critical safety data for laser removal operations

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

Required Personal Protective Equipment

Respiratory Protection
PAPR
Eye Protection
goggles
Skin Protection
full_suit

Hazardous Fumes Generated

CompoundConcentrationExposure LimitHazard ClassStatus
Carbon Monoxide50 mg/m³29 mg/m³toxic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Carbon Dioxide500 mg/m³9000 mg/m³toxic✓ Within Limit
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)2.5 mg/m³0.2 mg/m³carcinogenic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Ultrafine Carbon Particles15 mg/m³3 mg/m³toxic⚠️ Exceeds Limit

Ventilation Requirements

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

Particulate Generation

Respirable Fraction
80%
Size Range
0.01 - 10 μm

Substrate Compatibility Warnings

  • Laser parameters must be optimized to minimize substrate damage and excessive fume generation
  • Avoid laser cleaning on painted surfaces containing lead or chromium
  • Test on small area first to assess fume generation characteristics