Utilization of surfactants for consolidation of wooden work of art

Abstract

The effect of consolidation is proportional to the content of polymer in wood, i.e., to the ability of wood to absorb a polymer solution. One of the ways of increasing the absorption of the polymer solution is its modification by a surfactant. This article evaluates in detail the impact of non-ionic, anionic, and cationic surfactants on penetration of the ethylmethacrylate and methacrylate copolymer solution (Paraloid B72 in toluene) into lime wood by capillary rise. The impact of surfactants is evaluated on the basis of the solution surface tension, the contact angle of a sessile drop, and absorption of the solution by wood. Anionic and non-ionic surfactants based on polyoxyethylene had a positive impact on penetration of Paraloid B72 solution due to their ability to form inverse micelles in toluene. Fluorinated surfactants, polydimethylsiloxane-based surfactants, and cationic surfactants worsen its penetration.