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Compounding wood‐polymer composites with in‐line drying technology
Author(s) -
Cutillo Ralph,
Jackson Steven
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
journal of vinyl and additive technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.295
H-Index - 35
eISSN - 1548-0585
pISSN - 1083-5601
DOI - 10.1002/vnl.20057
Subject(s) - polyolefin , compounding , materials science , investment (military) , capital investment , commercialization , moisture , composite material , cellulosic ethanol , process engineering , engineering , business , cellulose , layer (electronics) , marketing , finance , chemical engineering , politics , political science , law
Composite decking has moved into the mainstream of commercialization. Manufacturers must have a process that can achieve high rates for a reasonable capital investment. The equipment must also be able to process a variety of materials so as to take advantage of formulation changes that increase quality and/or reduce costs. A single‐step process is discussed that converts nondried cellulosic fibers and polyolefin resins into finished retail decking. The effect on process conditions, particularly moisture removal, is discussed. Technical as well as commercial issues are addressed. The focus of this article is the need for an integrated manufacturing system to provide the maximum economic return on investment. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 11:166–169, 2005. © 2005 Society of Plastics Engineers