Cultural heritage protection via hybrid nanocomposite coating

Abstract

ABSTRACT Historical constructions are exposed to weathering conditions and atmospheric pollution for many years which demolish the historical material as well as dramatically influence their visual aspects. Nowadays, the development of conservative coatings with weather-resistant, self-cleaning, and hydrophobic properties is a promising challenge for carbonate stones. In this study, a simple synthesis route is developed to obtain organic–inorganic hybrid nanocomposites. The main components of the acrylate coatings are methyl methacrylate, 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (TMSM). Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) is added to the coating to improve the thermal resistance of the coating. Perfluorooctyl-trichlorosilane (FOTCS) is added to the coating to improve the weathering resistance and hydrophobic behaviour of the coating. Also, titanium dioxide (TiO2) is added to improve the thermal resistance and photocatalytic feature of the coating. The results confirmed significant enhancement in contact angle and weathering resistance that originates from adding an organofluorine component in the structure of the coating. A hybrid coating includes acrylate monomers as the binder and chemical substances include an organosilane (TEOS), fluorinated silane (FOTCS) and titania nanoparticles (TiO2) has appropriate properties like thermal resistance, mechanical resistance, weathering resistance, hydrophobicity, and self-cleaning that can be used as a protective coating for the precious stone-made cultural heritages.