Wood fibre‐polyester dough moulding compounds

Abstract

Abstract The mixing of wood fibres into dough moulding compounds (DMC) has been enhanced through thickening the mix by using zinc oxide or by adding an increased amount of scrap polystyrene. In both cases, the requirement for expensive styrene monomer has been reduced. The time needed for mixing has been shortened from up to 10 h to only 0·5 h as a result of the more efficient mixing. The electrical insulation properties of the compounds easily meet industry standards. Attempts to reduce the brittleness and increase the mechanical properties of the compounds by pretreating the fibres have not been successful.