Production of Wood-Plastic Composite from Mixed Particles of Pterocarpus angolensis (Mukwa) And Gmelina arborea (Roxb)

Abstract

Purpose: It is increasingly difficulty to meet the demand and supply for solid wood for human difference end uses, in view of the alarming shrinkage of forest resource. But the un-ending in wood resource supply to wood-based industry basically continue to underscore the need to think beyond total dependent on solid wood. The study creates a template to ameliorate wood scarcity viz production of wood-plastic composite from mixed particles of Pterocarpus and Gmelina, further analysis the effect of particles size on the Physio–mechanical properties of composite.

 Methodology: Five sieved size were employed, polyester and Meth ether Ketone peroxide (MEKP) were used as adhesive and accelerator respectively, sieved samples were oven dried under a control temperature of 102⁰C to moisture content of 12 to 15%. Fabricated composite was machined according ASTM standards.

Findings: The water absorption of composite S₁, S₂, S₃ recorded higher water uptake compared to S₄ and S₅ composites. Experimental results of mechanical properties revealed progressive strength properties with sieved sizes, ranging from 23 KN/mm² to 67KN/mm² for compressive strength, while the tensile strength, ranged from 17KN/mm² to 30KN/mm². In addition, it was observed that, particle size has influence on the Physical and mechanical properties of composites.

Unique contribution to theory, practice, and policy:The study hereby concluded that chips from the above species can be used for the production of composite to ameliorate the demand of solid timber from our ecosystem.