Incorporating spatiotemporal effects and moisture diffusivity into a multi-criteria materials selection methodology for wood-polymer composites

Naturally occurring biopolymers have demonstrated suitability for use in wood-polymer composites (WPCs), which have the potential to replace petroleum-based plastics, wood, and engineered-wood materials in construction applications. However, widespread applicability of WPCs remains limited because of long-term durability concerns, especially in high-humidity and wet environments. Using an outdoor deck as a case-study, this research presents the development and implementation of a durability-based service-life model that simulates in-situ environmental exposure conditions, moisture diffusion, and mechanical degradation of conventional and fully biorenewable WPCs. Modeling results were used to develop material comparison charts that simultaneously consider environmental impact and long-term, in-service performance. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.