Abstract |
The ultimate goal of our research was to develop technology to convert recycled wood fiber and plastics into durable products that are recyclable and otherwise environmentally friendly. Two processing technologies were used to prepare woodplastic composites: air-laying and melt-blending. Research was conducted in (1) developing laboratory methods for converting waste wood, wastepaper, and waste plastics into forms suitable for processing into composites; (2) optimizing laboratory methods for making composite panels from the waste materials; (3) establishing a database on the effects of formulation and bonding agent on physical and mechanical properties of composites; (4) establishing the extent to which the composites can be recycled without unacceptable loss in properties; and (5) reaching out to industry to provide education, to develop applications, and to extend the database. Overall, the program demonstrated that both air-laid and melt-blended composites can be made from a variety of waste wood, wastepaper, and waste plastics. The composites exhibit a broad range of properties that should make them useful in a wide variety of commercial applications. |