A Note on the Surface Deterioration of Scrimber Composites Exposed to Artificial Ageing

Abstract

The effect of ultraviolet radiation on the surface deterioration of scrimber composites with different densities and levels of resin content was investigated for this paper. The surface color, gloss, roughness, and wettability of the samples were investigated to determine the extent of surface changes due to accelerated ageing. The results indicated that all scrimber composites exhibited variation in the color of their surfaces during artificial xenon light exposure. After artificial accelerated ageing, the surface contact angle and roughness were found to increase, whereas the surface gloss and surface free energy decreased. Furthermore, it was observed that the density and resin content of the scrimber composites contributed to reductions in their color variation, wettability, and roughness during weathering, which suggested that the density and resin content played important roles in determining their surface photodegradation properties. Artificial ageing resulted in the degradation of lignin and hemicellulose, thus causing severe surface characteristics.

Changes in Chemical Composition, Crystallizability, and Microstructure of Decayed Wood-Fiber-Mat-Reinforced Composite Treated with Copper Triazole Preservative

“…When used outdoors, engineered wood composites are often affected by temperature, humidity, and biological agents. In particular, exposure to molds and decay fungi under appropriate humidity and temperature conditions can affect the color, morphology, and mechanical properties of timber [3][4][5]. White-and brown-rot fungi can degrade the polysaccharides and lignin in wood [6].…”

Outdoor Wood Mats-Based Engineering Composite: Influence of Process Parameters on Decay Resistance against Wood-Degrading Fungi Trametes versicolor and Gloeophyllum trabeum

“…Kataoka et al [ 8 ] reported that the spreading rate and extent of fungal degradation were dependent on the density of the composite. Furthermore, accelerated weathering is more likely to occur in low-density composites [ 9 ]. Previous studies have indicated that the dimensional stability and photostabilization of wood composites can be improved by increasing the concentration of phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin [ 10 , 11 ].…”