Influence of Mineral Filler (Dolomite) and Coupling Agent on Physical Properties and Fire Resistance of Beech Wood Flour-Polyethylene Composites

In this research، the effect of Dolomite mineral material on physical properties and fire resistance of composites produced from beech wood flour and polyethylene manufactured through hot pressing method was examined. In order to evaluate the effect of coupling agent on bonding between cellulosic fibers and the matrix، two levels (1%، 3%) of maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene were used. Standard experimental samples were prepared and properties such as water absorption، moisture diffusion coefficient، thickness swelling and fire resistance، were measured. The results showed that، when the mineral material dosage was increased، water absorption، thickness swelling، and moisture diffusion coefficient decreased whereas fire resistance increased،. Generally، addition of MAPE to the compound improved physical properties as well as fire resistance.