Multifunctional bio-wax microparticles for enhanced functionality of natural wood coatings

Natural wood coatings based on vegetable oils and waxes fulfill an important function for high-quality furniture and flooring. While they provide a pleasant look and natural feel to wooden surfaces, protection against liquids, especially water, and mechanical stability are often unsatisfactory. Inspired by the water-repellent properties of the natural lotus leaf, we propose a new approach for bio-based wood coatings that combines the beneficial effect of natural wax with the mechanical strength of cellulose nanocrystals. We hypothesize that micrometer-sized wax particles coated with hydrophobized cellulose nanocrystals can be produced in an emulsion-based process. Furthermore, we propose that once applied to a wood surface, either in combination with a natural oil or alternatively as a stand-alone solution, the microscale texture of the wax particles in combination with the nanoscale texture of the hydrophobic cellulose nanocrystals imparts strong water repellent properties to the surface. It is expected that the presence of cellulose nanocrystals will also significantly improve the mechanical resistance of the coating system. Overall, the proposed project thus aims to achieve significant scientific novelty in bio-based wood coatings, while at the same time providing a clear vision for practical application.