Recent research on the use of scanning laser systems for cleaning copper-based artifacts in cultural heritage

This chapter discusses the use of laser technology in cultural heritage. The first part explains the basics of laser technology and how lasers can be utilized in conservation for cleaning materials of artistic/historical significance. Literature has documented successful instances of laser-cleaning of Cu-based materials using near-IR manually operated laser equipment. This contribution explores the use of automated laser systems for selectively scanning surfaces. A description of this methodology is presented, and its potential for cleaning archeological alloys is examined through a series of laboratory produced analogs. Laser operating parameters are adjusted, and the test results are evaluated by characterizing the cleaned surfaces and are discussed in relation to the practical, ethical, and esthetic requirements of archeological alloys. Finally, an example of the application of the technique in a real artifact is presented.