Laser Discussion Group

Hi,

Does anyone have any experience of using lasers to clean antique pewter? The Pewter Society in the UK is interested in new techniques for removing disfiguring corrosion layers from historically important antique pewter - current treatments tend to include chemical and/or mechanical methods which can result in loss of surface detail. I'm not aware of any research investigating laser removal but just wondered if anyone out there knows otherwise or has had a go? Any information would be gratefully received.

Many thanks,

Martin

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Martin Cooper
Head of Conservation Division
Lynton Lasers
Holmes Chapel
United Kingdom
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Martin,

Apologies for the long delay.  I am not aware of any work in this area.  I have avoided it because of the likelihood of sending tiny particles of heavy metals into the air in the process.  That said, it's worth doing some in-depth testing.  If anyone has a piece or two from a study collection, we would be happy to dig into this (in a fume hood, wearing a respirator...)

Best,
Adam

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Adam Jenkins
Owner/Senior Conservator
Adam Jenkins Conservation Services LLC
Philadelphia
United States
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