College

College of Engineering and Polymer Science

Date of Last Revision

2024-09-19 12:08:31

Major

Chemical Engineering

Honors Course

CHEE 497-001

Number of Credits

3

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Date of Expected Graduation

Spring 2024

Abstract

Natural raw materials will be explored for developing hot melt adhesives for the lining of paintings. The leading raw material is a natural resin called "Damar". This resin is obtained from the tree family Dipterocaupocea in India and Southeast Asia. This material has shown promising results from initial testing. Damar, with the potential for other natural raw materials, will be combined with synthetic ingredients to create sustainable formulations. The formulations will be tested on linen to replicate the application onto paintings. The sustainability, tackiness, texture, and overall performance of each formula will be considered. Once a formulation has been selected, several methods of delivery and application will be tested as well. One of the goals is to create a solvent-free application to make sustainable and safe claims. The ultimate goal of the project will be to narrow down the search to an optimized formulation that delivers sufficient results and passes testing and standards. The motivation for this work is to provide a sustainable method for the linings of paintings and art restoration. The success of this project will benefit the community of fine arts and painting preservation, as well as sustainable polymers research.

Research Sponsor

Dr. Ali Dhinojwala

First Reader

Dharamdeep Jain

Second Reader

Dr. Edward Evans

Honors Faculty Advisor

Dr. Bi-min Zhang Newby

Proprietary and/or Confidential Information

No

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