The Effect of Wood Particles Type and Coupling Agent Content on Properties of Composites From Recyceled Polypropylene and Eucalyptus Wood

The aim of this study was to utilize recycled polypropylene in wood/plastic composites production. Recycled polypropylene and two types of eucalyptus wood (wood flour & fibers) and three levels of coupling agent (MAPP) 0، 2. 5 and 5% were used in wood/plastic composites production. The mechanical and physical properties of composites were measured and analyzed. The results of this study indicated that MOR of composites produced using fibers were higher than those made from wood flour. Also، the interactive effect of particle type and coupling agent was significant on MOE and composites produced with fibers and 5% MAPP indicated the highest MOE. The results also indicated that with increasing MAPP content، tensile strength and modulus of elasticity increased. However، particle type and coupling agent had significant effects on the modulus of elasticity and the minimum value of this property was observed at 0% MAPP content while using wood flour. The results of thickness sweling and water absorbtion of composites after 2 hours immersion in boiling water showed that these properties were at their lowest levels in composites made from wood flour. Also، increasing MAPP content، decreased these properties and the minimum values were observed while applying 5% MAPP.