HNT/Biopolymers composite materials as a new green alternative for cultural heritage

Synthetic polymers and solvents are dangerous for human health and for the environment, therefore, nowadays scientific community highlights the use of reversible and non-toxic materials toward a green chemistry. Biopolymers, such as Chitosan, Pectin, Hydroxypropyl cellulose, and Keratin, are one of the alternative materials to applied as non-toxic systems, low-cost, sustainable, and environmentally friendly, besides many physico-chemical characteristics. The addition of nanomaterials, (HNT), essential oil, and active molecules improves the physico-chemical properties of biopolymers and proposes smart response abilities to the new composite material in the field of cultural heritage. Two different treatments are presented: a new protective coating for stone artwork with biopolymers filled with halloysite/wax microspheres to prevent surface ageing process; a new consolidation and UV-protection coating for wool thread for cultural heritage consisting halloysite /Keratin dispersion.