Characteristics of wood-plastic composites reinforced with organo-nanoclays.

Nanomer and Cloisite are the popular commercial nanoclays (NC) available in the market. The mechanical properties of wood—plastic composite (WPC) based on linear low density polyethylene with or without wood fiber are compared for different added nanoclays. In addition, the moisture uptakes at 23°C and 45% RH and water uptake/loss after immersion in water are evaluated. I.34TCN type nanoclay as well as Cloisite Na+ lead to composites with superior mechanical properties and better water resistance behaviors compared to the other kinds of nanoclays. It should be noted that the discoloration occurs in WPC reinforced with unmodified NC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]