Wood-plastic composite (WPC) is a composite material that combines wood elements and plastic fibers. WPC can be made entirely from recycled materials and plastic powder obtained from wood product manufacturing facilities. WPC, also known as composite wood, is widely used in the construction of outdoor deck floors, prefabricated houses, park benches, door frames, and indoor and outdoor furniture. This article explains the manufacturing, characteristics and advantages of WPC in construction.
Wood-plastic composite (WPC) manufacturing
Wood-plastic composites are made by thoroughly mixing ground wood particles and heated thermoplastic resin. Finally, the entire mixture is extruded into the desired shape. Commonly used thermoplastic resins are polystyrene (PS), polylactic acid (PLA), and polypropylene (PP).
The mixing and extrusion processes vary by manufacturing facility. WPC contains organic raw materials and needs to be processed at a lower temperature than traditional plastic composite materials to facilitate extrusion and injection molding. The ratio of wood to plastic in the composite material determines the melt flow index (MFI) of WPC. A large amount of wood leads to a lower MFI.
Features of Wood Plastic Composites (WPC)
●WPC is a combination of various substances prepared with a paste texture. Therefore, they are molded into any desired shape and size.
●WPC can be dyed or colored to match the required design specifications.
●Compared with ordinary wood, WPC is both aesthetically and overall durable because this composite material has moisture-proof and anti-corrosion properties.
●WPC is more heat resistant than typical wood.
●Drilling, planning, and sanding work on WPC is similar to normal carpentry work.
●Adding additives in the WPC manufacturing process makes the product have better dimensional stability than ordinary wood.
Advantages of Wood Plastic Composites (WPC)
●WPC material is termite-resistant and waterproof.
●WPC board provides a good surface finish without painting, dyeing, and oiling.
●WPC materials require less maintenance and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
●Compared with ordinary wood, WPC material is more durable and has a longer service life.
●The WPC floor is non-slip.
●WPC materials are available in different colors and painted with different textures.
●WPC can be thermoformed into any curved or curved shape.
●The material is UV resistant, so it will not fade when used outdoors.
●WPC is made of recycled wood and plastic materials. Therefore, it is a sustainable and environmentally friendly material.
Disadvantages of wood-plastic composites (WPC)
●WPC is less resistant to extreme temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius.
●Laser cutting work cannot be performed on WPC because it will cause melting.
●They lack the natural wood texture and feel of natural wood.
●WPC is easily scratched.
