Application of polymer coatings and nanoparticles in consolidation and hydrophobic treatment of stone monuments

Abstract

Consolidation and hydrophobic treatment of stone artworks are challenging tasks. These treatments are considered irreversible in many cases. However, in many cases, they are unavoidable, especially when the stone monuments are in risk of deterioration and collapse induced by aging and weathering. The consolidation and hydrophobic treatment of a monument have to be done within an appropriate time window; otherwise, it is in risk of being collapsed completely due to the deep erosion of layers and loss of cohesion. In this study, a variety of challenges associated with the consolidation, and hydrophobic treatments of stone monuments are addressed. Inorganic nanoparticles and polymeric materials are introduced for this aim. Acrylics, silanes and organic–inorganic nanocomposites play an important role in the preparation of hydrophobic coating compositions for application on the stone surface. In addition, the effect of fluorinated functional groups on the coating composition and the influence of hydrophobic properties of additives on the stability and weathering resistance under harsh conditions are discussed. It is shown that the use of inorganic nanoparticles in a coating composition is a useful way to improve consolidation, self-cleaning and anti-microorganism properties in the conservation and protection treatments. Scientific articles and recent developments emphasize the need for water-based resins which possess environmentally friendly features.