LASER Technology

L.A.S.E.R. stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Lasers work by concentrating light into a small beam that remains condensed rather than dispersing like normal light.

This concentrated beam of light can be used for the preservation and cleaning of historical objects.

Lasers present an innovative way to restore ancient sites. The laser beam can be calibrated to a certain frequency, this allows conservators to fine tune the removal ability of the laser. With lab experimentation, the right frequency to remove vandalism will not damage the site. However, finding the perfect frequency requires a great deal of experimentation, which is why we conducted lab tests with the laser tuned to different frequencies and various types of spray paint and rock surfaces.

Before and after pictures of a frieze at the Parthenon that underwent laser cleaning.

(http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/shared/spl/hi/pop_ups/05/entertainment_cleaning_the_parthenon_frieze/html/1.stm)

Continuum Surelite Laser

(image courtesy of http://www.continuumlasers.com/products/pulsed_surelite_series.asp)

Click HERE for our lab test results, conducted under the direction of Dr. M.H. Abraham.
Click HERE for the results of our field test, conducted with Dr. Abraham, Claire Dean, Stephen Freers and many members and officials of the San Luis Rey Band.
 
Last update: April 28, 2008 by Lucy Harrington
The University of Southern California does not screen or control the content on this website and thus does not guarantee the accuracy, integrity, or quality of such content. All content on this website is provided by and is the sole responsibility of the person from which such content originated, and such content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the University administration or the Board of Trustees