A novel portable multi-wavelength laser system

There is an established need for a portable and affordable Q-switched laser system for use in studio conservation and small scale field use. The ideal system would be capable of producing a variety of wavelengths ranging from the ultraviolet to the infrared with sufficient energy per pulse to treat a wide range of materials including stone, marble, terracotta, wood, organic materials, bone, parchment, textiles, and metals. In this paper we report on such a system which is capable of delivering Q-switched output at 1,064nm in excess of 300mJ per pulse and at repetition rates of up to 25 Hz. Additional outputs are also reported at 266 nm, 355 nm, 532 nm, and 2.94 mu m. Preliminary cleaning results on a small range of objects using the Q-switched 1,064nm output are presented.