M. Schreiner, M. Strlič, R. Salimbeni (eds.): Handbook on the Use of Lasers in Conservation and Conservation Science, COST G7 (2007) 2.1 Principles of Laser Cleaning in Conservation Salvatore Siano 2.1.1 Introduction 2.1.2 Historical Note 2.1.3 Laser Systems and Parameters 2.1.4 Linear Laser-Material Interaction 2.1.4.1 Absorption and Scattering 2.1.4.2 Laser Heating 2.1.4.3 Photoacoustic Effects 2.1.5 Non-linear Interaction Effects 2.1.6 Note on Laser induced Plasma 2.1.7 Ablation Channels 2.1.7.1 Ablation Rate 2.1.8 Conclusive Note 2.1.9 Supporting Information 2.1.9.1 References Istituto di Fisica Applicata “Nello Carrara”, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy S.Siano@ifac.cnr.it http://www.ifac.cnr.it