11.   The space-age solution touted by Banks and Miller is atomic oxygen, one of three types of naturally occurring oxygen.

12.   Theoretically, the work could lead to a hand-held atomic oxygen cleaner.

13.   Time after time, the atomic oxygen combined with the hydrocarbons in the lipstick stains and successfully removed them.

14.   True to predictions, the atomic oxygen combined with the soot to produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and water vapor, which all separated from the paint surface.

15.   Unfortunately, Baxter and Real already have another opportunity to test the atomic oxygen.

16.   Using atomic oxygen, they reasoned, would eliminate any need to rub or even touch the dry and brittle canvases.

17.   Even in the relative vacuum of space, atomic oxygen and other particles can contaminate the delicate process.