Low adhesion due to the annual leaf fall represents a considerable threat to the railway industry both in terms of operational safety and in terms of the cost of delays and of managing the problem. The adoption of effective novel solutions could therefore have a significant impact on safety and cost. This project conducted an independent review of a novel technique called 'Laserthor' that aims to remove contamination using lasers. On behalf of RSSB, Interfleet Technology assessed the system in terms of its effectiveness, impact on infrastructure, and ease of implementation, drawing a comparison with other methods of improving adhesion. The report has now been published and finds that Laserthor performs well offering real benefits, but that further development is required particularly with regard to installation on rail vehicles. The report recommends that further development should continue and, in fact, further assistance was provided in project T144.