The scientists from University of Trento co-polymerised vinyl-functionalised zirconium oxoclusters with vinyltrimethoxysilane on wood. They examined the coating process, also assessing the specific weight of hybrid polymer left on the wood after one or two coating steps.

 

Tests confirmed flame retarding effect

 

The efficacy of the process in consolidating and protecting the wood was investigated using high-temperature differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), infrared spectroscopy and solid state NMR spectroscopy. The coating did not affect the morphology and appearance of the wood. However, it did modify its behaviour on exposure to fire and preliminary accelerated biological tests with the brown rot fungus Coniophora puteana showing an improved resistance to the fungal attack.