Yi-Chun LinPh.D.Taiwan
Laser Materials ProcessingPublished
Dec 16, 2025
Rubber Compound Residue Contamination
Rubber-residue contamination arises from vulcanized rubber deposits of tire marks, seals, and gaskets, so it forms during friction and compression on surfaces. This residue shows unique elasticity and strong adhesion that distinguish it from oily or powdery contaminants because of its polymeric nature. On materials like steel or concrete, residue clings tightly and resists scraping, so removal challenges include incomplete cleaning without damaging substrate, yet laser cleaning succeeds by vaporizing layers precisely during pulsed exposure.
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 | 50-200 mg/m³ | 29 mg/m³ | toxic | ✓ Within Limit |
| Hydrogen Cyanide | 5-30 mg/m³ | 5 mg/m³ | toxic | ✓ Within Limit |
| Benzene | 10-50 mg/m³ | 0.5 mg/m³ | carcinogenic | ✓ Within Limit |
| Styrene | 20-100 mg/m³ | 85 mg/m³ | irritant | ✓ Within Limit |
| Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) | 2-15 mg/m³ | 0.2 mg/m³ | carcinogenic | ✓ Within Limit |
| Sulfur Dioxide | 5-25 mg/m³ | 5 mg/m³ | irritant | ✓ Within Limit |
Ventilation Requirements
Air Changes Per Hour
15
Exhaust Velocity
0.5 m/s
Filtration Type
carbon
Particulate Generation
Respirable Fraction
70%
Size Range
0.1 - 10 μm
Substrate Compatibility Warnings
- •Laser may cause surface damage or discoloration on underlying material
- •Thermal effects may alter material properties near cleaning area
- •Potential for embedded particulate if substrate is porous
