For more than 30 years, IESL-FORTH has been conducting pioneering research to optimize laser processing parameters according to the physicochemical properties of each material. This work has enabled the development of highly precise, effective, and safe laser-based methodologies tailored to the conservation of cultural heritage. A number of laser systems with different wavelength, pulse duration and energy output characteristics are available for laser conservation investigations such as: A) Q-switched Nd:YAG lasers emitting both nano- and pico-second laser pulses at various wavelengths (such as 1064, 532, 355, 266 and 213nm) B) various excimer lasers emitting nano, pico and femto-second pulses in the UV (248, 193nm), C) a patented ns Nd:YAG system with dual wavelength beam output (1064 and 355nm), developed for the laser cleaning project of the Athens Acropolis Monuments specially dedicated to remove pollution crust from stonework without any discoloration or damage, D) a LQS Nd:YAG system emitting IR pulses at longer pulse-widths, E) an Er:YAG laser system emitting at 2094 nm and F) a continuous CO2 laser system for the patented application related to the laser conservation of glazed objects. Various workstations adjustable for different laser cleaning applications with the ability to integrate different optical and opto-mechanical components for the most appropriate beam delivery and control are available; A) either through handheld units (using an articulated arm) or B) through automated beam scanning units for micrometer control and guidance of the laser beam to the sample (i.e. the painting surface). The latter, a computer-driven mechanised component, can be adjusted based on fluence values, spot size and pulse repetition rate enabling thus the homogeneous scanning of predefined areas.

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Clean surface/ modified surface

Microinvasive (very minor, controlled, and reversible physical interaction)

Litron / Spectron/ ElEn / EKSPLA / LAMBDA PHYSIK

(Litron) TRLi 850// (Spectron) 2λ Modified, series SL850// (ElEn) EOS 1000/ (ElEn) Palladio/ (EKSPLA) SL312 -1064-532-355-266-214nm / (LAMBDA PHYSIK) LPX 210 / (LAMBDA PHYSIK) EMG150MSC/ (LITRON) NANO L 200-20-Er/

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