Characterising terpenic plant resins, wood tars and pitches in heritage science: analytical methods and applications

npj Heritage Science 2026 Open access

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Authors: Jeannette Jacqueline Łucejko, Irene Bertelli, Renata Costa, Bettina Ebert, Andreu Falcó, Rodica‐Mariana Ion, Paul R. B. Kozowyk, Zorica Mojović, Federica Nardella, Alessandra Pecci, Erika Ribechini, Hannes Schroeder
+2 more Magdalena Zborowska, Maria Perla Colombini
DOI: 10.1038/s40494-026-02426-6
Cited by: 5
References: 201

Abstract

Abstract This review examines natural plant resins, wood tars and pitches in heritage science, focusing on their historical uses, chemical composition and analytical characterisation. Particular attention is given to diterpenoid and triterpenoid resins and to chemical transformations induced by ageing, degradation and thermal processing. The identification of diagnostic molecular markers supports the determination of botanical origins and technological practices, while an overview of complementary analytical methods highlights current challenges and perspectives.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Wood and Agarwood Research Cultural Heritage Materials Analysis Plant biochemistry and biosynthesis

Publication details

Journal / source
npj Heritage Science
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
14
Issue
1
Publication date
17 March 2026
Language
EN