Effect of Spherical Silica on the Molding and Properties of Cellulose/Plastic Composite with High Cellulose Content

It is important to utilize reinforcement by fibers in wood plastic composites (WPC). However, when a thermoplastic polymer is mixed with fibrous wood material, the melt fluidity of the mixture usually decreases and its fabrication becomes difficult. This tendency is pronounced for the composite with a high cellulose content. In this study, the effects of added fly ash, which is a spherical silica, on the fluidity of melt mixture and injection molded composite are reported. Increase in fluidity of compound and fall of molding viscosity were observed by the addition of fly ash. The spherical shape of fly ash was maintained after molding. The increase in water-resistance of the injected mold was also confirmed. Addition of fly ash improved the molding of cellulose/plastic composites with high cellulose content and also improved their water-resistance.