Project Overview
Industry: Historical restoration
Location: NSW
Types of Laser Used: 500W
Summary:
PLC was contacted by the the historic St Joseph Lochinvar Chapel to restore marble and painted staues and the 14 stations of the cross to their orginal condition after an arson attack.
The Challenges
Extensive Smoke and Soot Damage: The blaze left extensive smoke and soot damage on the chapel’s interior, including statues, the grand piano and the pipe organ.
Complex Material Mix: Marble, painted sculptures and other delicate surfaces required tailored restoration methods to avoid further damage.
Difficult Access: Most artworks were elevated requiring scaffolding or EWPs and careful planning to safely reach and restore them.
The Solution
Extensive Smoke and Soot Damage: Pulse laser ablation was used to remove soot, smoke and debris from statues, the grand piano and the pipe organ with no further damage.
Complex Material Mix: Each sculpture was individually assessed and pulse laser settings were tailored for marble, painted surfaces and other delicate materials to preserve detail and original finishes.
Difficult Access: Scaffolding and careful planning enabled safe restoration of elevated or hard-to-reach artworks, with all work performed in situ due to the cultural significance of the pieces.
The Results
Precision Laser Cleaning fully restored the chapel’s marble and painted sculptures, including all 14 Stations of the Cross, using non-abrasive laser ablation. Smoke, soot and debris were removed without damaging the delicate surfaces, preserving the artworks’ integrity. The restoration enhanced the chapel’s aesthetic and historical value, earning high praise from the chapel administration.
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