Density Reduction and Electrical Conductivity Induction in Wood Plastic Composites

Abstract

ncreasing environmental awareness has led to an increase in the usage of wood plastic composites in many countries. The primary objective of this research was the decrease in the density of wood particle-polypropylene composites using chemical blowing agents while retaining their mechanical properties. Different amounts of Azodicarbonamide (0%, 1% and 2% by weight) were mixed with four blends consisting of wood particles (15%, 25%, 35% and 45% by weight), Epolene (2% by weight) and polypropylene and compounded in an extruder. The resulting extrudates were granulated, injection-moulded into specimens and tested for density, tensile strength and impact strength. The secondary objective of this research was the increase in the electrical conductivity of wood particle-polypropylene composites using conducting agents for novel end usages. Different amounts of carbon black (1%, 3%, 5%, 7% and 10% by weight) were mixed with a blend consisting of wood particles (45% by weight), epolene (2% by weight) and polypropylene and compounded in an extruder. The resulting extrudates were granulated, compression-moulded into plates, machined into specimens and tested for electrical conductivity and tensile strength.