SynopsisLinear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) was reinforced with different wood fibers, aspen chemithermomechanical pulp (bleached and unbleached), and other commercial wood pulps. Silane coupling agents A-172, A-174, A-1100, and polymethylene polyphenyl isocyanate were used to improve the bonding between the fiber and matrix. LLDPE filled with pretreated wood fiber produced a significant improvement in tensile strength and modulus. Comparison of tensile and impact properties of wood fiber composites with mica &nd glass fiber composites shows the potential advantage (in terms of material cost and specific properties) of wood fiber as a reinforcement.

SynopsisWood fibers of aspen in the form of chemithennomechanical pulp (CTMP) and Tembec 6816 have been used as reinforcing fillers in different varieties of polystyrene. The tensile strength, elongation, and energy at maximum point, as well as tensile modulus at 0.1% strain is reported. Also revealed is the optimum condition of compression molding. The influence of different coupling agents, such as poly[methylene(polyphenyl isocyanate)], silanes (A-172, A-174, A-1100), and grating on the mechanical properties of composites is discussed. The extent of increase in mechanical properties depends on the weight percentage of fibers, the concentration of coupling agents, and the grafting level (add-on %). Coating followed by an isocyanate treatment appears to be the best treatment. In addition, the isocyanate treatment and grafting are superior to the silane treatment. Experimental results are explained on the basis of possible interactions among cellulose fiber-coupling agent-polymer in the interfacial area.

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SynopsisThe compounding of Kraft pulp with polypropylene was studied using a laboratory highshear roller blender. Dispersion was characterized by measuring the size and number of agglomerates in a thin compression-molded sheet. The effects of parameters such as surface treatment and mixing conditions were investigated. It is shown that with a suitable treatment, better dispersion of fibers can be achieved.