Wood-Plastic Composites (PDF)

A comprehensive, practical guide to wood-plastic composites and
their properties

This is the first book that presents an overview of the main
principles underlying the composition of wood-plastic composite
(WPC) materials and their performance in the real world. Focusing
on the characteristics of WPC materials rather than their
manufacture, this guide bridges the gap between laboratory-based
research and testing and the properties WPC materials exhibit when
they're used in decks, railing systems, fences, and other common
applications. Complete with practical examples and case studies,
this guide:

* Describes compositions of WPC materials, including
thermoplastics, cellulose fiber, minerals, additives, and their
properties

* Covers mechanical properties, microbial resistance, water
absorption, flammability, slip resistance, thermal
expansion-contraction, sensitivity to oxidation and solar
radiation, and rheological properties of hot melts of WPC

* Covers subjects that determine esthetics, properties,
performance, and durability of wood-plastic composite products

* Includes comparisons of different ASTM methods and procedures
that apply to specific properties

This is a comprehensive, hands-on reference for scientists,
engineers, and researchers working with wood-plastic composites in
plastics and polymers, materials science, microbiology, rheology,
plastic technology, and chemical engineering, as well as an
outstanding text for graduate students in these disciplines. It's
also an excellent resource for suppliers and WPC manufacturers, and
an accessible guide for developers, homebuilders, and landscape
architects who want to know more about wood-plastic composites and
their performance in the real world.