Metric showing ablationThreshold with value 2.8 J/cm², ranging from 0.5 to 2 J/cm². Press Enter or Space to search for this metric.
Ablation Threshold
Current value: 2.8 J/cm². Range: 0.5 to 2 J/cm². Progress: 100% of maximum.
2.8
J/cm²
Lanthanum Laser Cleaning
Precision laser restores Lanthanum's soft silvery purity without oxidation risks
Alessandro MorettiPh.D.
Laser-Based Additive Manufacturing
Italy
Properties: Lanthanum vs. other rare-earths
Laser-Material Interaction
Material Characteristics
Other Properties
Machine Settings: Lanthanum vs. other rare-earths
Lanthanum surface magnification
Laser cleaning parameters for Lanthanum
Before Treatment
Under microscopy, the lanthanum surface shows irregular pitting and oxide clusters from contaminants like dust and organic residues, leading to uneven degradation and reduced material integrity.
After Treatment
After laser cleaning, the lanthanum surface gleams with pristine clarity, contaminants entirely removed without residue. This restoration excels in quality, preserving the rare-earth material's structural integrity and thermal properties intact. No defects arise, ensuring readiness for precise applications in advanced manufacturing.
Lanthanum Laser Cleaning FAQs
Can a standard laser cleaning machine safely remove lanthanum oxide scale or contamination from components?
A standard 1064nm laser system can effectively remove lanthanum oxide scale, but requires precise fluence control near the 2.5 J/cm² ablation threshold. Its high absorption coefficient of 0.85 facilitates efficient cleaning, yet the low thermal conductivity of 13.4 W/(m·K) demands careful parameterization to prevent localized thermal effects and potential surface modification.
What are the specific safety hazards of laser cleaning lanthanum or lanthanum-containing alloys?
Lanthanum's low 200°C oxidation threshold means laser cleaning readily generates hazardous oxide fumes. At our standard 2.5 J/cm² fluence, you require a P100 particulate filter and powerful fume extraction. The fine, reactive particles necessitate this robust respiratory and ventilation control to mitigate inhalation risks.
What is the best laser parameter setup (wavelength, power, pulse width) for cleaning lanthanum without damaging the substrate?
For lanthanum's high 85% absorptivity, use a 1064 nm wavelength at 90 W average power. Maintain fluence just above the 2.8 J/cm² ablation threshold with 12 ns pulses to remove oxides without melting the soft substrate, leveraging its low thermal conductivity.
Does laser cleaning create a passivation layer on lanthanum metal, and is it desirable?
Yes, laser cleaning at 2.5 J/cm² fluence does create a thin lanthanum oxide passivation layer. This is highly desirable, as it significantly improves the material's corrosion resistance, which is otherwise limited below 200°C, enhancing part longevity for subsequent applications.
How do you verify the effectiveness of laser cleaning on lanthanum surfaces? What inspection methods are used?
We verify cleaning effectiveness using white light interferometry to confirm surface topography below 1 µm roughness. EDX analysis ensures oxide contaminants are reduced below 200 ppm, while a uniform matte finish at 2.5 J/cm² fluence indicates successful ablation.
Is lanthanum considered a 'rare earth' in laser cleaning safety protocols, and does it require special handling like thorium?
Lanthanum is indeed classified as a rare earth, but unlike radioactive thorium, it presents no radiological hazard. Standard laser safety protocols apply, using 1064 nm wavelength at 2.5 J/cm² fluence for oxide removal. The primary concern is managing the fine particulate generated during ablation.
What are the common industrial parts made of lanthanum that might require laser cleaning?
In electronics manufacturing, we frequently clean lanthanum-containing hydrogen storage alloys and optical components like LaFN21 glass. Their oxide layers, forming above 200°C, are effectively removed using a 1064 nm laser at 2.5 J/cm² fluence without damaging the soft substrate.
Why is lanthanum often a contaminant on other materials, and how is it removed with a laser?
Lanthanum oxide contamination often occurs from catalyst residues or glass polishing. We remove it using a 1064 nm laser at 2.5 J/cm², a fluence just above its ablation threshold. This effectively vaporizes the oxide layer without damaging the underlying nickel alloy or stainless steel substrate.
Can laser cleaning be used to prepare a lanthanum surface for subsequent processes like coating or welding?
Laser cleaning effectively prepares lanthanum surfaces using a 1064 nm wavelength and fluence near 2.5 J/cm². This process removes oxides while creating a slightly roughened, activated surface ideal for adhesion. The low thermal conductivity of 13.4 W/(m·K) ensures minimal heat input, preserving the substrate integrity for subsequent coating or welding.
How does the high reactivity of fresh lanthanum metal affect post-laser cleaning handling and storage?
Freshly laser-cleaned lanthanum surfaces re-oxidize almost instantly in air due to the metal's high reactivity. To preserve the pristine surface achieved with 2.5 J/cm² fluence, you must immediately transfer the component into an argon glovebox or proceed with the next manufacturing step, like coating, without delay.
Regulatory Standards & Compliance
FDA
FDA 21 CFR 1040.10 - Laser Product Performance Standards
ANSI
ANSI Z136.1 - Safe Use of Lasers
IEC
IEC 60825 - Safety of Laser Products
OSHA
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.95 - Personal Protective Equipment
