Weathering characteristics of wood-plastic composites compatibilized with ethylene vinyl acetate

Abstract

Poplar wood flour wood-plastic composites (WPCs) prepared with high-density polyethylene and modified with different amounts of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) were created. The influence of EVA content on the surface properties and weathering characteristics after ultraviolet (UV) treatment was investigated. The results showed that WPCs treated with EVA had improved thermal stability, and the surface polarity was reduced. The addition of EVA slowed the fading of the WPCs, and the color difference was the smallest when the EVA content was 5%. Both the bending strength and the modulus of elasticity (MOE) of the WPCs decreased after the UV treatment. However, when the EVA content was 5%, the bending strength retention ratio and MOE retention ratio were greatest. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the addition of EVA reduced the amount of pores and gaps on the fractured surfaces of the WPCs. The comprehensive performance of the WPC anti-weathering properties was greatest when the EVA level was 5%.