Using rape particles in the production of polymer and lignocellulose boards

Abstract

This study examined the manufacture of flat-pressed wood plastic composites (WPC) using rape chips glued with polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate (pMDI). Manufactured boards were of 5-ply type, with 30% polyethylene (PE) content in individual layers. The following properties were assessed: modulus of rupture (MOR); modulus of elasticity (MOE); internal bonding strength (IB); thickness swelling (TS) after 24 hours; water absorption (WA); and noise reduction effectiveness. The tests revealed better physical and mechanical properties of polymer-particle boards than similar polymer and rape boards. It was also demonstrated that a change in mechanical properties of polymer and lignin-cellulose boards is strongly associated with polymer location in individual board layers, and that greater porosity of wood material ensures better polymer anchoring in its structure, when compared with rape straw particles.