2 - Additives for wood-polymer composites

Abstract

Publisher Summary This chapter presents that the process of bringing any product to market is initiated when the sponsors of the venture agree that there is an identified market need and profit can be generated upon commercialization. Additive selection is just as important to the success of the venture as the choice of processing equipment and raw materials for the final product. The additives play two roles in contributing to the success of the venture. The role seen by the marketplace is that of effecting end product performance attributes to meet consumer expectations, regulatory requirements, and the marketing objectives of the manufacturer. The role internal to the business enterprise is that of affecting the manufacturing process to minimize the unit cost of finished goods for greater profitability. Additives can be used wisely and cost effectively to optimize performance and profit. Due diligence is required with an understanding of all the parameters. The catch is that for any one objective, there is often more than one solution available; one must identify the option that provides the best overall answer, after considering all the possible ripple effects of any option.