Contemporary applications of cellulose derivatives in conservation and restoration of paper, wood, textiles and painted cultural heritage

This review assesses the application of cellulose derivatives, specifically cellulose ethers and nanocelluloses, in cultural heritage conservation. By analysing literature and case studies, it highlights how their unique properties enable eco-friendly and effective treatments—such as reinforcement, deacidification, bacteriostasis, and colour fixation—for paper, wood, oil painting, and textile artefacts. These applications are shown to align with the critical conservation tenets of reversibility and minimal intervention.