HNT/Biopolymers composite materials as a new green alternative for cultural heritage

Abstract

Synthetic polymers and solvents are dangerous for human health and for the environment, therefore, nowadays scientific community highlights the use of reversible and non-toxic materials toward a green chemistry. Biopolymers, such as Chitosan, Pectin, Hydroxypropyl cellulose, and Keratin, are one of the alternative materials to applied as non-toxic systems, low-cost, sustainable, and environmentally friendly, besides many physico-chemical characteristics. The addition of nanomaterials, (HNT), essential oil, and active molecules improves the physico-chemical properties of biopolymers and proposes smart response abilities to the new composite material in the field of cultural heritage. Two different treatments are presented: a new protective coating for stone artwork with biopolymers filled with halloysite/wax microspheres to prevent surface ageing process; a new consolidation and UV-protection coating for wool thread for cultural heritage consisting halloysite /Keratin dispersion.