Research Progress on Epoxy Resins in Cultural Heritage Conservation

Epoxy resins have been extensively employed in cultural heritage conservation as both adhesive and reinforcement materials owing to their exceptional bonding strength, relatively low toxicity, and cost-effectiveness. This review initially outlines the fundamental material characteristics of epoxy resins and subsequently examines their contemporary applications in artifact restoration. Subsequently, it synthesizes the research advancements documented over the past two decades, with a focus on critical challenges associated with their application in cultural heritage preservation, including susceptibility to aging, inherent brittleness, and prolonged curing time. The corresponding modification strategies are systematically examined, including strategies for aging resistance enhancement, toughness improvement, and rapid-curing techniques. Finally, potential future directions for epoxy resin applications in conservation are critically evaluated. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of epoxy resins’ performance and modification methodologies, thereby offering valuable insights to guide future research on its application in cultural heritage conservation.