Tens of thousands of laser photons per second of infrared light directly to the surface.
The target material absorbs the light energy.
The target material/coating heats up while the substrate stays cool.
Coating begins to break down and detach. The substrate/base material remains cool.
Contaminants turn to vapor or particles. The stored energy makes the coating/rust particulate or vaporize.
Residue is safely vacuumed away, leaving a pristine surface.