Alien Wood Species as a Resource for Wood-Plastic Composites

Abstract

Since invasive alien species are one of the main causes of biodiversity loss in the region and thus of changes in ecosystem services, it is important to find the best possible solution for their removal from nature and the best practice for their usability. The aim of the study was to investigate their properties as components of wood-plastic composites and to investigate the properties of the wood-plastic composites produced. The overall objective was to test the potential of available alien plant species as raw material for the manufacture of products. This would contribute to sustainability and give them a better chance of ending their life cycle. One of the possible solutions on a large scale is to use alien wood species for the production of wood plastic composites (WPC). Five invasive alien hardwood species have been used in combination with polyethylene powder (PE) and maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (MAPE) to produce various flat pressed WPC boards. Microstructural analyses (confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy) and mechanical tests (flexural strength, tensile strength) were performed. Furthermore, measurements of density, thickness swelling, water absorption and dimensional stability during heating and cooling were carried out. Comparisons were made between the properties of six WPC boards (five alien wood species and mixed boards). The results showed that the differences between different invasive alien wood species were less obvious in mechanical properties, while the differences in sorption properties and dimensional stability were more significant. The analyses of the WPC structure showed a good penetration of the polymer into the lumens of the wood cells and a fine internal structure without voids. These are crucial conditions to obtain a good, mechanically strong and water-resistant material.

Review on the influencing factors towards improving properties of composite insulation panel made of natural waste fibers for building application

“…21 Several studies have shown that the physical and mechanical properties of a composite panel have greatly improved when there is more interaction occurred between the binder and the fiber particles. 22 In addition, research has demonstrated that a sufficient amount and a homogeneous combination of binder with fiber particles are capable of filling the fiber particle bonding gap or void structure in composite panel cavities, hence enhancing their physical and mechanical properties. 23 The advantages and disadvantages of binder were listed in Table 1.…”

Impact of Invasive Plant Species on Ecosystems, Biodiversity Loss and Their Potential Industrial Applications

“…Table 1 shows several invasive plants with animicrobial properties and some species of microorganisms whose development is inhibited by them. Improving the quality of materials Medved et al (2020) have successfully used the woody debris of five invasive species (Table 1) to make wood-plastic composites. Zhao et al (2021) utilised the biomass of Phalaris arundinacea and Lonicera japonica to reinforce the PHBV thermoplastic.…”

Availability and Applicability of Wood and Crop Residues for the Production of Wood Composites

“…The article deals with two starting materials: (i) wood, which is expected to have high price volatility and therefore should be considered by producers for alternative uses and (ii) straw, for which it is necessary to find a compromise between its use and its incorporation into the soil (burning, ploughing and similar) to maintain nutrients in the system [16][17][18][19]. It is noteworthy to mention that recycled wood and post-harvest residues could replace conventional raw materials in the forthcoming future, as there is clear evidence that in the future there will be a lack of wood materials, especially in the woodworking, energy and other sectors [20][21][22]. In addition, it is worth mentioning post-consumer wood waste, e.g., post-consumer wood fibreboard waste [23].…”