Sustainable WPC Production: A Novel Method Using Recycled High-Density Polyethylene and Wood Veneer

• Published in: Recycling (Basel) Vol. 9; no. 1; p. 1
• Main Authors: Canto-Borges, Leslie Cristell, Cruz, Julio César, Nahuat-Sansores, Javier Rodrigo, Domínguez-Lepe, José Antonio, Gurrola, Mayra Polett
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Basel MDPI AG 01.02.2024
• Subjects: Composite materials; compression molding; Construction industry; Galvanized steel; Gypsum; High density polyethylenes; Humid climates; Humidity; lightweight panels; manufacture; Manufacturing; Manufacturing industry; Mechanical properties; Mechanical tests; Moisture content; Molding (Chemical technology); Panels; Physical properties; Plywood; Polyethylene; Pressure molding; Production processes; recycled plastic; Testing; Veneers; Veneers and veneering; Water absorption; Water content; Water uptake; wood plastic composite; wood veneer; Mexico
• ISSN: 2313-4321; 2313-4321
• DOI: 10.3390/recycling9010001

This research work is focused on the development of an alternative method for manufacturing Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) panels based on Wood Veneers (WVs) and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) through compression molding, which enhances the physical properties, particularly, water absorption and moisture content. The aim of the present research was to develop alternative panels to replace commercial ones, which are heavily affected by hot, humid climates. In this context, the study began with the design process, which consisted of the collection and processing of primary material, production of the additional components necessary for the manufacturing process, determination of the WV ratio, and preparation of the samples. Thereafter, physical and mechanical tests were carried out on WPC, HDPE (control), commercial gypsum boards (GBs), plywood (PW), and medium density fiberboard (MDF) samples. The results indicate that the method applied to manufacture the WPC samples improved physical properties, achieving a water uptake of less than 4% in both proportions of replacement tested, in contrast to commercial panels, which reached values between 10% and 40%. In addition, a greater load capacity was achieved for lower thick elements.