Synthesis and characterization of polyurethane composites of wood waste and polyols from chemically recycled pet

Polyurethane/wood-based composites were synthesized with wood waste from furniture companies of the north of Parana State and polyols obtained from chemically recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and commercial polyols. Wood was chemically modified (maceration with peracetic acid) to provide phase adhesion. The composites were prepared with proportions of macerated wood waste (0-25% m/m) and fixed amounts of polyols and toluene diisocyanate (TDI). FTIR and SEM analysis indicated adhesion of wood with polymer matrix. The relative Young's modulus and relative tensile strength of the composites confirm this result, indicating effective load transfer from the matrix to the dispersed phase. No significant improvement in the thermal stability of the composites is observed. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.