Beeswax Nanoemulsion for Consolidation and Hydrophobization of Canvases

Journal article, 2025

In this article, a novel dispersion system is presented for consolidation and hydrophobization of degraded canvases. The dispersions are formulated by combining cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and hydrophobically modified ethylhydroxyethylcellulose (EHM) with beeswax nanoemulsions. The beeswax nanoemulsion is prepared using the Ouzo effect, a low-energy, surfactant-free, and spontaneous emulsification method. EHM serves as an anchor for CNC and beeswax nanoparticles on the canvas, forming a continuous film and preventing aggregation during the treatment process. Tensile tests and contact angle measurements demonstrate that the dispersions effectively strengthen the canvas and enhance its water resistance, addressing the moisture-induced mechanical limitations observed with previous nanocellulose and polyelectrolyte consolidants. Additionally, the hydrophobicity of the beeswax-CNC/EHM system can be adjusted by varying the beeswax content. Overall, the use of entirely green components and the straightforward preparation process makes this dispersion system highly adaptable for consolidation in cultural heritage conservation, particularly in scenarios where a hydrophobic surface is required.