A Critical Review on Wood-Based Polymer Composites: Processing, Properties, and Prospects

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Science
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Circular economy initiatives drive waste recycling, particularly for construction and demolition wood.
• Wood-polymer composites (WPC) utilize recycled wood and plastics, offering reduced environmental impact (abiotic potential, global warming, greenhouse gas emissions).
• Conventional WPC manufacturing techniques like injection molding and extrusion have limitations, necessitating exploration of alternative methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the material formulation and additives used in wood-polymer composites (WPC).
• To discuss the processing of WPCs, including the use of bio-based adhesives as alternatives to synthetic ones.
• To highlight the mechanical, structural, and morphological properties of WPCs and their applications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on WPC material formulation, additives, and processing techniques.
• Analysis of rheological characterization methods for evaluating WPC quality.
• Examination of bio-based adhesive formulation for wood composites.

Main Results:

• Recycled WPCs exhibit favorable environmental profiles and tunable mechanical properties for specific applications.
• Bio-based adhesives present a sustainable alternative to synthetic adhesives, though formulation challenges exist.
• WPCs demonstrate significant potential in structural and non-structural applications across various industries.

Conclusions:

• WPC technology offers a viable route for waste valorization and sustainable material development.
• Further research into bio-based adhesive formulation is crucial for complete replacement of synthetic adhesives.
• WPCs are versatile materials with broad applications in construction, automotive, marine, and defense sectors.