Product Code: JLA_15_4_261

Authors:
J. Pou
C. Trillo
R. Soto
A. F. Doval
M. Boutinguiza
F. Lusquin˜os
F. Quintero
M. Pe´rez-Amor
Departamento Fı´sica Aplicada, Universidad de Vigo, Lagoas-Marcosende 9, 36280 Vigo, Spain

Granite stones have been used from times immemorial as structural element for public works and construction of every kind of building. At present, granite stones are used widely for fac¸ades, paving and flooring; polished being the most commonly used surface finish type. Recent years have seen a dramatic increase in the demand of granite plates having a rougher, more “rustic” surface finish. In this article we present the results of an exploratory study on the capabilities of the high power diode laser to treat the surface of granite plates. The results allow us to affirm that the laser presents several advantages in comparison to the conventional mechanical method: mechanical stresses are not induced in the granite plate, waste powder is reduced, and hazardous noise is not a byproduct. © 2003 Laser Institute of America.