Contemporary applications of cellulose derivatives in conservation and restoration of paper, wood, textiles and painted cultural heritage
Abstract
This review assesses the application of cellulose derivatives, specifically cellulose ethers and nanocelluloses, in cultural heritage conservation. By analysing literature and case studies, it highlights how their unique properties enable eco-friendly and effective treatments—such as reinforcement, deacidification, bacteriostasis, and colour fixation—for paper, wood, oil painting, and textile artefacts. These applications are shown to align with the critical conservation tenets of reversibility and minimal intervention.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Advanced Cellulose Research Studies
Cultural Heritage Materials Analysis
Building materials and conservation
Publication details
- Journal / source
- npj Heritage Science
- Publisher
- Springer Science and Business Media LLC
- Volume
- 14
- Issue
- 1
- Publication date
- 14 January 2026
- Language
- EN