Wood composites based on in situ modification of poplar veneers by PEG-[Bmim]Cl

Abstract

Due to the high viscosity of pure [Bmim]Cl, PEG was selected to be co-solvent to form the solvent system. The dissolution and plasticization ability of PEG-[Bmim]Cl to poplar veneer was completed with processes such as hot pressing and coagulation bath to achieve the in-situ modification of poplar veneers to develop an innovative wood composite, which are expected to be molded. At the same time, the effects of the solvent system on the properties of wood composites were studied. The results showed that both the [Bmim]Cl-treated group (B) and the PEG-treated group (C) had a certain degree of plasticity when compared with the untreated group (A). The PEG-[Bmim]Cl-treated group (D) had the greatest ductility. The main reason was that PEG and [Bmim]Cl synergistically in situ dissolve the components of the veneer, increasing the proportion of the matrix phase (dissolved part). The interface bonding between the matrix phase and the reinforced phase was enhanced and resulted in the best comprehensive mechanical properties. However, no other derivative reactions occurred in each group.