Use of Sawdust in Polyethylene Composites

Abstract

In this study, composites were made with wood sawdust residues and a polyolefin. Experiments were carried out in order to analyze different parameters for processing the composites. The parameters analyzed were the sawdust/polymer ratio and the type of coupling agent. The sawdust and the polymer were mixed in a single extruder in order to produce profiles. The results showed that the composites made of HDPE and sawdust had good mechanical properties, suitable for industrial applications. These results, together with the availability of the residues in the northeast of Rio Grande do Sul state, (Brazil), makes these composites a good alternative for the use of residues.