DEVELOPMENT OF A STIFF, VOID FREE, LOW DENISTY PLASTIC WOOD REPLACEMENT

摘要

Process studies attempting to produce a low density, wood like replacement involving Kenaf, Polypropylene and hollow glass spheres ("bubbles") blends along with processing aids and compatibilizers have been investigated using a counter-rotating non-intermeshing (CRNI) twin screw extruder. Bubble breakage was higher than anticipated based on related work, but in spite of the fairly low bubble survival rates, nailability of the boards was improved. Bubble breakage and mechanical properties are presented along with a discussion of the narrow process window.