Use of wood fibers in thermoplastics. VII. The effect of coupling agents in polyethylene–wood fiber composites

Abstract

Abstract Linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) was reinforced with different wood fibers, aspen chemithermomechanical pulp (bleached and unbleached), and other commerical 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 and glass fiber composites shows the potential advantage (in terms of material cost and specific properties) of wood fiber as a reinforcement.