a laser ablation and filtration process and apparatus wherein liquid containing hydrocarbons or other contaminates is purified . the liquid is exposed to laser energy at one or more selected wavelengths wherein the laser energy travels through the liquid and reaches the hydrocarbons or other contaminates and vaporizes , denatures , breaks down , neutralizes , renders inert and / or separates the hydrocarbons or contaminates from the liquid . a laser source is positioned in or on a vessel based on pre - set parameters to maximize exposure of the liquid to the laser energy , including sizing parameters , angle and inclination of the laser , retention time for the laser process to be applied and geometry of the containment for proper inclination . one or more collection chambers , which may include perforated membranes may be included to collect gases , separated hydrocarbons or contaminates and other by - products of the process . the vessel utilized may be submergible in water to pull or flow contaminated water therethough . the vessel may also be utilized outside a body of water wherein contaminated water from a source is introduced within the vessel .