A ternary methylcellulose/cellulose nanocrystal/lignin composite for archaeological wood consolidation: Mechanical reinforcement and aging simulation

This study explores methyl cellulose (MC)-cellulose nanocrystal (CNC)-lignin bio-composites as sustainable consolidants for archaeological wood preservation. The composites were prepared via aqueous blending and characterized for viscosity, thermal stability, structure, and functional performance. Increasing CNC content enhanced viscosity (from 3 to 10 mPa·s) and mechanical strength, while lignin improved UV shielding and moisture resistance. The MC/CNC50/LIG20 composite exhibited the best performance, with ∼400 °C thermal stability and more than twofold increases in Young's modulus and tensile stress of degraded wood after impregnation. Lignin addition provided near-complete UV protection and reduced water vapor transmission by ∼40 %. These results demonstrate that MC/CNC/lignin composites can provide effective in-situ consolidation and environmental protection for fragile wooden artifacts, offering a renewable and low-impact solution for heritage conservation.