Synthesis and characterization of lignin–silicone hybrid polymers as possible consolidants for decayed wood

The consolidation of samples of waterlogged wood was attempted using allylated lignin as cross-linker and compatibilizer in the silicone oil conservative treatment. During the curing of the composite, allylated lignin was reacted with a poly(dimethylsiloxane) hydride terminated on both the ends of the silicone chain through a hydrosilylation reaction in the presence of the Karstedt’s catalyst. Three lignin–silicone hybrids were prepared using different allyl/hydride group ratios. Preliminary wood consolidation was thus accomplished treating pieces of wood with lignin–silicone hybrids prepared in situ with silicone and allylated lignin in different concentrations in the presence of the Karstedt’s catalyst. IR and SEM-EDX analysis proved that the growth of the silicone–lignin polymer was easier within the external layers. In addition, water uptake tests and contact angle measurements were performed on consolidated wood samples to evaluate the extent of hydrophobicity.