The thermo-oxidative stability and flammability of wood/polypropylene composites

The main aim of the study was to evaluate the thermo-oxidative stability and flammability of wood/polypropylene composites. The composites were obtained by extrusion and compression moulding with chemical modification of wood in order to improve adhesion. The composites were characterised by differential scanning calorimetry and cone calorimetry, providing such parameters as the oxidation induction time and a few parameters describing flammability, e.g. time to ignition, heat release rate, mass loss rate, heat of combustion, specific extinction area and emission of toxic gases. The results illustrate a considerable effect of the presence of wood and chemical modifications of lignocellulosic filler on the thermo-oxidative stability and character of combustion of the composites studied. The information provided in the paper contributes towards the correct choice of chemical modification of wood that would improve mechanical properties of the composites and towards getting composite materials of target thermo-oxidative stability and flammability.