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Effect of the nanosilica content in the shell of coextruded wood‐plastic composites to enhance the ultraviolet aging resistance
Author(s) -
Liu Chaozheng,
Mei Changtong,
Xu Bing,
Jiang Min,
Chen Weimin,
Zhou Guoqiang,
Wang Ke
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
polymers for advanced technologies
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.61
H-Index - 90
eISSN - 1099-1581
pISSN - 1042-7147
DOI - 10.1002/pat.4454
Subject(s) - materials science , fourier transform infrared spectroscopy , x ray photoelectron spectroscopy , composite material , scanning electron microscope , durability , flexural strength , ultraviolet , degradation (telecommunications) , chemical engineering , telecommunications , optoelectronics , computer science , engineering
Weathering durability of wood‐plastic composites (WPCs) is a significant issue for outdoor applications. Nanosilica is widely used to enhance the ultraviolet (UV) aging resistance of composites. In this study, the effects of nanosilica (0%, 1%, 2%, 5%, and 10%) added into the shell of coextruded WPCs were investigated after 2500‐hour UV exposure. Discoloration, durability, degradation, and photooxidation of the composites were studied by colorimetry, mechanical testing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The samples with 2% nanosilica addition (the N2 samples) provided optimal color protection, showing the lowest Δ E * (color difference) and Δ L * (lightness) values in all samples. The surface of N2 samples was less oxidized after UV exposure as revealed by FTIR and XPS analysis, and showed fewer cracks in SEM images compared with controls and other samples. In addition, N2 samples provided best flexural properties. In summary, the addition of 2% nanosilica was most effective in protecting WPCs from UV degradation. Moreover, obtained results provide a theoretical development for adopting the nanosilica as a reinforcing agent in WPCs and applying coextruded WPCs in outdoors.