Practical techniques for creating nanocellulose film and the application of aqueous adhesives

Practical techniques for creating nanocellulose film and the application of aqueous adhesives
Robin Canham, Queen’s University

Nanocellulose is composed of nano-sized cellulose fibrils that are typically isolated from a cellulose source through high-pressure, temperature, and velocity. In the field of paper conservation, nanocellulose is being researched as a material for tear repair and paper stabilization due to its transparency and strength properties. Nanocellulose has also been studied as a material to stabilize canvasses.
Guided by Remy Dreyfuss-Deseigne’s 2017 article entitled “Nanocellulose Films in Art Conservation”, several practical methods for the creation of nanocellulose films were tested using different variables such as dish type, shape, and size. This presentation will focus on outlining a practical approach for the creation of nanocellulose films, including an outline on the development of a nanocellulose calculator. Lastly, an overview of a method to apply aqueous adhesive to these films will be discussed.


Robin Canham has a Bachelor of Arts (English) from the University of Regina and a Master of Information Studies, with a focus in Library Studies, from the University of Toronto. She worked as the Digital Resources Librarian at Saskatchewan Polytechnic for thirteen years before returning to school to pursue a Master of Art Conservation degree at Queen’s University, specializing in Paper Conservation. Additionally, she is actively involved with the Canadian Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild (CBBAG) and has held positions within CBBAG since 2005. Besides making books, she enjoys weightlifting, hiking, yoga, and spending time with her house rabbit Jasper.