Photostabilization of wood flour filled HDPE composites

Abstract

Wood/plastic composites are increasingly examined for non-structural building applications. As outdoor applications become more widespread, durability becomes an issue. Ultraviolet exposure can lead to photodegradation, resulting in a change in appearance and/or mechanical properties. Photodegradation can be slowed through the addition of photostabilizers. This study examines the performance of photostabilized HDPE/wood flour composites after accelerated weathering. A full factorial experimental design was used to determine the effects ofhindered amine light stabilizers (HALS), a W absorber (UVA), a colorant, and their interactions on the photostabilization of the composite. After 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 hours of accelerated weathering, color change and flexural properties were determined. The experimental results indicate that both colorant and UVA are more effective photostabilizers for wood flour/HDPE composites than HALS.

Citation

Stark, Nicole M.; Matuana, Laurent M. 2002. Photostabilization of wood flour filled HDPE composites. ANTEC 2002 Annual Tecnical Conference : May 5-9, 2002, San Francisco, CA. : conference proceedings. Volume II, Materials. S.l. : Society of Plastics Engineers, 2002: p. 2209-2213