IMPROVED INTERACTION BETWEEN WOOD AND SYNTHETIC-POLYMERS IN WOOD POLYMER COMPOSITES/

This article describes the properties of wood polymer composites consi sting of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) and wood flour (WF). In an attempt to improve the interfacial adhesion between the matrix a nd the filler, different compatibilizers were used. The interaction be tween polymer and wood were studied by comparing LLDPE/WF composites w ith composites when compatibilizer was added. The experimental measure ments were conducted by impact and tensile strength testing and Scanni ng Electron Microscopy (SEM). The mechanical properties of the composi tes were improved with SEBS triblock copolymer modified with maleic an hydride and with the ionomer polymer, Surlyn, as compatibilizers. SEM fractography confirmed better adhesion between wood particles and LLDP E matrix when SEES was present.