Effects of processing method and fiber size on the structure and properties of wood-plastic composites

The aim of this study was to understand the roles of processing method and fiber size on the properties of wood-plastic composites (WPC). Composites were manufactured using extrusion or injection molding (IM) and fibers of different fiber length-to-diameter (L/D) ratio. IM resulted in better mechanical properties and lower water absorption and swelling than extrusion. These differences can be explained by the structure and surface quality of the composites. Fiber L/D ratio had a beneficial effect on mechanical properties but resulted in decreased water absorption characteristics. These results allow identifying a suitable forming process and/or fiber size according to application needs. This study provides a better understanding of the relationships between processing method, fiber characteristics, and composite behavior. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.