Abstract

The implementation of modern laser technology in improving the conservation and nondestructive diagnostics of painted works of art is reported. In particular, emphasis is placed on excimer-laser painting-cleaning applications (painted-surface cleaning or cleaning of the support material, including canvas, paper, and wood) and the restoration of original paintings from overpaintings.^1,2 The technique is based on the controlled layer-by-layer removal of the surface, 0.5-1-μm thickness, by excimer-laser photoablation. Reflectography at different wavelengths and image processing are used for on-line process control. The presence of any photochemical processes leading to oxidation is considered.

© 1995 Optical Society of America