The results on surface modification of materials of different structures; morphology, grain sizes, density and porosity by exposure to nanosecond laser light are given. Laser induced changes in their surface characteristics are presented. Surface layers of Si3N4, SiC dense ceramics and BN graphite and turbostratic pressed powders are studied by scanning electron microscopy to reveal the new nanostructures (nanowires or nanotubes) and new morphologies. A pronounced evolution in structure and grain size of BN graphite powders was demonstrated in laser processing layers. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.