The article discusses the application of laser technology for cleaning archaeological artefacts, focusing on a Pleistocene bear bone sample from Sierra de Atapuerca. The study utilised an 800 ps pulsed near IR laser to interact with contamination and deteriorated layers on the bone surface. By operating the laser in burst mode, the researchers identified laser parameters that effectively removed contaminants without damaging the bone surface.
A laser irradiance threshold of 0.20 GW/cm^2 was determined to prevent damage to the bone sample during cleaning. The study highlighted the importance of selecting appropriate power output and pulse repetition rate to ensure efficient cleaning while avoiding harm to the artefact.
The results indicated that laser irradiation below the threshold value could safely and effectively clean Pleistocene bone surfaces, offering a promising method for artefact conservation. The research contributes to the field of laser cleaning in archaeology, demonstrating the potential of laser technology for artefact restoration and preservation.
The study’s findings provide valuable insights into optimising laser parameters for artefact cleaning, paving the way for further advancements in laser-based conservation techniques. The collaboration between the Instituto de Nanociencia de Aragón (INMA) and the University of Burgos, supported by funding from H2020-MSCA-ITN-EJD/ED-ARCHMAT, underscores the interdisciplinary nature of archaeological research and conservation efforts.
