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Open AccessArticle

Application of Starch Based Coatings as a Sustainable Solution to Preserve and Decipher the Charred Documents

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Sonali Kesarwani

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Divya Bajpai Tripathy

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Suneet Kumar

Coatings 2023, 13(9), 1521; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings13091521 - 30 Aug 2023

Viewed by 315

Abstract

Fire can be one of the most destructive elements to cause devastation. Fire can completely or partly destroy any crucial and invaluable documents, such as banknotes, books, affidavits, etc., in a couple of minutes. Moreover, the documents can also be damaged by heat, [...] Read more.

Fire can be one of the most destructive elements to cause devastation. Fire can completely or partly destroy any crucial and invaluable documents, such as banknotes, books, affidavits, etc., in a couple of minutes. Moreover, the documents can also be damaged by heat, smoke, soot, and water during an accident. The burnt documents become fragile, losing their identity, which may have some evidentiary value related to the incident. Therefore, there is a strong need for processing to procure, preserve, and decipher, i.e., to restore the texts written on them. Hence, the present research focuses on developing a new method using natural polysaccharides, i.e., starch, to preserve and decipher the contents of charred documents. The most suitable concentration of starch analog was found to be 6% microwaved at 80 °C for about 10 min. As soon as the charred documents were coated with 6% starch analog, the majority of the invisible texts became visible to the naked eye in a second. Moreover, the application of a synthesized analog of polysaccharide on fragile charred documents provided an appreciable increase in strength by almost 0.1 kg/cm² for the coated charred documents of each paper type compared to that of non-coated ones and made them stabilized. This research also involves the use of easy and advanced handwriting recognition techniques (HCR) using an easily accessible, free platform, G-lens, that successfully recognized the majority of texts deciphered using 6% starch analog and converted them from captured images to a readable and copyable text format. Furthermore, the document visualization under VSC also gave a promising result by enhancing and deciphering the non-visible and less visible texts under flood light and white spot light at 715 and 695 long passes. Hence, this study offers an environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable approach of using a natural polysaccharide instead of synthetic polymers for the preservation and decipherment of charred documents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation)

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Open AccessArticle

Cellulose-Graphene Bifunctional Paper Conservation Materials: For Reinforcement and UV Aging Protection

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Coatings 2023, 13(2), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings13020443 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 701

Abstract

Paper artifacts have unique cultural and historical values. However, over time, many paper artifacts appear with disease characteristics such as embrittlement and photoaging, losing the most fundamental function of the literature archive. The reinforcement handling of degraded paper artifacts is, therefore, a necessary [...] Read more.

Paper artifacts have unique cultural and historical values. However, over time, many paper artifacts appear with disease characteristics such as embrittlement and photoaging, losing the most fundamental function of the literature archive. The reinforcement handling of degraded paper artifacts is, therefore, a necessary measure to extend their service life, the key to which lies in the reinforcement and prevention of photoaging. This paper intended to use graphene oxide (GO) as a UV protective agent, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as a reinforcement, and polyethyleneimine (PEI) as a modifier. In this work, the amino-modified graphene oxide carboxymethyl cellulose composite (CMC-aGO) was prepared by chemical modification, which was used as bifunctional paper protection material with anti-ultraviolet and reinforcement. It showed excellent performance in both tensile strength testing and UV resistance testing. The CMC-aGO raw material is low cost, colorless, transparent, simple to synthesize, convenient to operate, and is an excellent conservation material with dual functions of UV aging protection and paper reinforcement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation)

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

One-Step Preparation of High Performance TiO₂/CNT/CQD Nanocomposites Bactericidal Coating with Ultrasonic Radiation

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Coatings 2023, 13(1), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings13010145 - 11 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 953

Abstract

As an environmental semiconductor material, TiO₂ has important applications in the fields of environmental protection and water treatment. The preparation of P25 particles into nano-functional material films with a high specific surface area has always been a bottleneck limiting its large-scale application. [...] Read more.

As an environmental semiconductor material, TiO₂ has important applications in the fields of environmental protection and water treatment. The preparation of P25 particles into nano-functional material films with a high specific surface area has always been a bottleneck limiting its large-scale application. In this paper, a one-step method of preparing TiO₂ nanocomposites by doping carbon nanotube (CNT) and carbon quantum dots (CQD) with tetrabutyltitanate and P25 TiO₂ under ultrasonic radiation is proposed to synthesize a novel antifouling material, which both eliminates the bacterium of Escherichia coli and shows good photoelectric properties, indicating a great value for the industrial promotion of TiO₂/CNT. This mesoporous composite exhibits a high specific surface area of 78.07 M²/g (BET) and a tested pore width range within 10–120 nm. The surface morphology of this composite is characterized by TEM and the microstructure is characterized through XRD. This preparation method can fabricate P25 particles into a nano-functional material film with a high specific surface area at a very low cost. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation)

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Open AccessArticle

A Novel Protection Method for Carbonate Stone Artifacts with Gypsum Weathering Crusts

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Coatings 2022, 12(11), 1793; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings12111793 - 21 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1097

Abstract

An innovative method using a methanol solution of barium hydroxide-urea as a protective agent was investigated for the conservation of stone artifacts with harmful gypsum weathering crusts. In this method, the methanol solution of barium hydroxide-urea and water were introduced into the gypsum [...] Read more.

An innovative method using a methanol solution of barium hydroxide-urea as a protective agent was investigated for the conservation of stone artifacts with harmful gypsum weathering crusts. In this method, the methanol solution of barium hydroxide-urea and water were introduced into the gypsum crust in sequence by surface spraying. By doing so, the harmful gypsum crust is directly converted into a barium sulfate—calcium carbonate composite protective layer. The properties of the composite layer were characterized by SEM-EDX, XRD, ATR-FTIR, IC, water solubility, wetting angle, color difference, open porosity, capillary water absorption, and surface hardness. The results of the morphological and composition characterization (SEM-EDX, XRD, ATR-FTIR) indicate that the added urea can promote the carbonization reaction effectively. In addition, the methanol solution of barium hydroxide-urea can penetrate deep into the gypsum crust. The results of the physical properties characterization denote that the water stability of the specimens was significantly increased after the protection treatment; an approximate ten-fold stronger water resistance ability was achieved. Meanwhile, the intrinsic physical properties of gypsum crust, such as pore structure and original appearance, could basically be maintained. The presented conservative method has high facility and controllability and satisfying conservation effect, which means it has potential in the conservation of surface weathering carbonate stone artifacts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation)

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Open AccessArticle

Preliminary Investigation of Sequential Application of Different Calcium Oxalate Solutions for Carbonate Rock Conservation

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Coatings 2022, 12(10), 1412; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings12101412 - 27 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 894

Abstract

Being inspired by nature, a series of experiments was carried out to deposit a calcium oxalate layer on the surface of the stone by the reaction between carbonate rock and oxalate salt. To increase the anti-dissolution properties of the calcium oxalate layer, the [...] Read more.

Being inspired by nature, a series of experiments was carried out to deposit a calcium oxalate layer on the surface of the stone by the reaction between carbonate rock and oxalate salt. To increase the anti-dissolution properties of the calcium oxalate layer, the use of mixed oxalate solution has been proposed in the literature by two main routes: (1) adding acid agent to ammonium oxalate, which has the advantage of changing the particle structure and reducing layer porosity, and (2) using neutral methyl oxalate solution, which has the advantage of surface coverage due to slowly hydrolysis. In this study, we investigated the sequential application of ammonium oxalate, methyl oxalate, neutral mixed, and calcium acetate acid mixed solution. With this method, calcium carbonate and calcium oxalate solution can react inside the stone to reinforce it. The protective film’s coverage area can then be increased using dimethyl oxalate neutral mixed solution, and the crystal morphology can be modified with calcium oxalate acid mixed solution. The anti-dissolution properties of the coating were investigated using both a custom-designed apparatus and a selective outdoor environment. The coating displayed good acid resistance properties at pH 2–4. After one year of exposure, the coating is firmly bonded with the stone. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation)

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Open AccessArticle

A Durable Nano-SiO₂-TiO₂/Dodecyltrimethoxysilane Superhydrophobic Coating for Stone Protection

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Coatings 2022, 12(10), 1397; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings12101397 - 25 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1427

Abstract

Water can trigger freeze–thaw cycles, acid rain corrosion, and microbial colonisation, all of which destroy stone. Water is one of the most influential factors in the destruction of outdoor stone heritage. Therefore, materials with excellent hydrophobic properties and durability are urgently required to [...] Read more.

Water can trigger freeze–thaw cycles, acid rain corrosion, and microbial colonisation, all of which destroy stone. Water is one of the most influential factors in the destruction of outdoor stone heritage. Therefore, materials with excellent hydrophobic properties and durability are urgently required to effectively retard long-term stone weathering. In this study, two nanoparticles, TiO₂ and SiO₂, were used to modify dodecyltrimethoxysilane (DTMS), a waterproof coating commonly used for stone heritage protection, to fabricate nanocomposite superhydrophobic coatings. The micromorphology, water repellence (water contact angle and capillary water absorption), suitability to protect stone heritage (color change and water vapor permeability), and durability (thermal, light, and chemical stability) of DTMS and nanocomposite coatings were evaluated. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images revealed that adding 0.5% (w/w) SiO₂ produced nanoscale roughness on the sandstone surface, leading to superhydrophobicity. The results of ultraviolet -visible (UV–Vis) spectrophotometer showed that adding 0.01% TiO₂ shielded more than 90% of UV light but accelerated the decrease in the contact angle under UVA irradiation. The addition of SiO₂ was able to avoid the detrimental effect of TiO₂ under UV light. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results showed that both SiO₂ and TiO₂ nanoparticles improved the thermal stability of the coatings. In particular, the fabricated nanocomposite coating, SiO₂ and TiO₂ co-modified DTMS, had excellent water repellence, low color change and outstanding durability, and retained about 85% of the water vapor permeability of the stone, showing promise for stone protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation)

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Open AccessArticle

Hybrid Tri-Cure Organo-Silicon Coatings for Monument Preservation

by

Cory B. Sims

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Chamika U. Lenora

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Joseph C. Furgal

Coatings 2022, 12(8), 1098; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings12081098 - 02 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1993

Abstract

A coating system integrating three distinct chemistries was developed to protect materials used in monuments and construction. Initial curing is achieved using a UV-initiated thiol-ene reaction to form a non-impressionable/non-sticky surface. Second, amine/epoxy reactions form a firm surface adhesion and give mechanical strength [...] Read more.

A coating system integrating three distinct chemistries was developed to protect materials used in monuments and construction. Initial curing is achieved using a UV-initiated thiol-ene reaction to form a non-impressionable/non-sticky surface. Second, amine/epoxy reactions form a firm surface adhesion and give mechanical strength through consolidation. Third, alkoxysilane sol-gel curing integrates the siloxane network while adding thermal stability, hydrophobicity, and a hardened surface. The final design utilizes a photoacid generator to increase the reaction speed of the second and third curing steps. The coating can be applied by spray, dip, or wipe on methods and exhibits a rapid non-impressionable surface (as fast as 10 min) that resists graffiti and environmental conditions, and is used and stored as a single-component system with a pot life exceeding six months. A series of experiments were used to determine the coating properties and durability, including field testing and accelerated weathering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation)

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Open AccessArticle

Consolidation of Fragile Oracle Bones Using Nano Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate as a Protectant

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Coatings 2022, 12(6), 860; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings12060860 - 18 Jun 2022

Viewed by 1301

Abstract

Herein, a nano calcium sulfate hemihydrate suspension in an alcohol solvent was prepared and explored as a novel protectant for fragile oracle bones. The consolidation method involved first introducing the suspension and then adding water into the bones. Through this method, cohesive calcium [...] Read more.

Herein, a nano calcium sulfate hemihydrate suspension in an alcohol solvent was prepared and explored as a novel protectant for fragile oracle bones. The consolidation method involved first introducing the suspension and then adding water into the bones. Through this method, cohesive calcium sulfate dihydrate formed in the bones and can act as a reinforcing material. The protective effect was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffractometry (XRD), hardness, porosity, and color difference determination. The results showed that such consolidation increased the strength of the bone samples significantly, and only slightly changed the appearance and porosity of the bone samples, indicating a good prospect for applying nano calcium sulfate hemihydrate in the conservation of indoor fragile bone relics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation)

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Open AccessReview

Comparison and Research Progress of Protein Detection Technology for Cultural Relic Materials

by

Qian Wu

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Bingjian Zhang

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Yulan Hu

Coatings 2023, 13(8), 1319; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings13081319 - 27 Jul 2023

Viewed by 462

Abstract

The analysis of historical materials is an essential component of cultural heritage conservation. Protein was one of the most important and pervasive organic substances in ancient human societies. Through the qualitative and quantitative examination of protein-based materials, it is possible to clarify their [...] Read more.

The analysis of historical materials is an essential component of cultural heritage conservation. Protein was one of the most important and pervasive organic substances in ancient human societies. Through the qualitative and quantitative examination of protein-based materials, it is possible to clarify their source and functions of substances in cultural heritages, investigate the manufacturing technology of cultural heritage, and identify their deterioration mechanism. On the basis of these analyses, corresponding measurements are therefore feasible. Currently, mass spectrometry, chromatography, spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic, proteomics, and immunoassay are used to analyse protein materials. Proteomics techniques and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technology are two of the most common methods for detecting ancient proteins. This article discusses the evolution of protein component detection in ancient materials, as well as the implementation of proteomics and ELISA techniques for the analysis of proteins. In addition, the characteristics of these two techniques were contrasted in order to propose the most recent analytical techniques and the direction of future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Coating Material for Heritage Preservation)

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