Terpene polyacrylate TPA5 shows favorable molecular hydrodynamic properties as a potential bioinspired archaeological wood consolidant

There is currently a pressing need for the development of novel bioinspired consolidants for waterlogged, archaeological wood. Bioinspired materials possess many advantages, such as biocompatibility and sustainability, which makes them ideal to use in this capacity. Based on this, a polyhydroxylated monomer was synthesised from alpha-pinene, a sustainable terpene feedstock derived from pine trees, and used to prepare a low molar mass polymer TPA5 through free radical polymerisation. This polymer was extensively characterised by NMR spectroscopy (chemical composition) and molecular hydrodynamics, primarily using analytical ultracentrifugation reinforced by gel filtration chromatography and viscometry, in order to investigate whether it would be suitable for wood consolidation purposes. Sedimentation equilibrium indicated a weight average molar mass M-w of (4.3 +/- 0.2) kDa, with minimal concentration dependence. Further analysis with MULTISIG revealed a broad distribution of molar masses and this heterogeneity was further confirmed by sedimentation velocity. Conformation analyses with the Perrin P and viscosity increment nu universal hydrodynamic parameters indicated that the polymer had an elongated shape, with both factors giving consistent results and a consensus axial ratio of similar to 4.5. These collective properties-hydrogen bonding potential enhanced by an elongated shape, together with a small injectable molar mass-suggest this polymer is worthy of further consideration as a potential consolidant.

Automated summary

A novel polyhydroxylated monomer was synthesized from sustainable terpene feedstock derived from pine trees and used to prepare a polymer for wood consolidation purposes. Extensive characterization revealed the polymer's elongated shape, hydrogen bonding potential, and suitable molecular weight for further consideration as a potential consolidant.