Applications for Nanocellulose Films in Conservation Workshop

Artworks and documents made of translucent or transparent supports are abundant in Archives, Libraries, and Museums collections. They include thin papers, tracing papers, films, thin skins etc. But these supports are generally delicate and fragile, and the related artworks and documents often have some structural issues, such as tears or delamination of the media. It becomes especially problematic when there becomes a need to handle these already fragile materials for consultation, digitization, or exhibition.

The field of nanotechnologies offers new possibilities to stabilize translucent and transparent supports with innovative materials. This course will focus on one kind of nanomaterials – the Nanocellulose films, also known as Nanopapers.

Started in 2018, this two-day intensive course will provide established conservators with a theoretical and practical foundation for understanding the use of Nanocellulose films in conservation. The course consists primarily of hands-on activities, but also includes lectures, group discussions, examination of various Nanocellulose films, the making processes of MFC films, CNC films and Nanocomposites, and the application of these new materials (Nanopapers and Nanocellulose suspensions) on a selection of translucent and transparent supports.

Participants will:

• Gain an understanding of Nanocellulose and its derivative new materials
• Get the latest experimental data on the use of Nanocellulose in conservation
• Study and examine various samples of Nanocellulose films / Nanopapers
• Learn how to make different types of Nanopapers directly in a conservation lab
• Learn how to use Nanocellulose suspensions and Nanopapers for treatment
• Know where they can directly get these new materials
• Learn innovative methods to treat translucent and transparent supports