Effects of fiber characteristics on the physical and mechanical properties of wood plastic composites

We investigated the effects of fiber variability, size, and content on selected mechanical and physical properties of wood plastic composites. HDPE and fibers were compounded into pellets by twin-screw extrusion and test specimens were prepared by injection molding. All tested properties vary significantly with fiber origin. Higher fiber size produces higher strength and elasticity but lower energy to break and elongation. The effect of fiber size on water uptake is minimal. Increasing fiber load improves the strength and stiffness of the composite but decreases elongation and energy to break. Water uptake increases with increasing fiber content. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.