WPC Board: Unveiling Unique Physical and Mechanical Properties
WPC or Wood Plastic Composite is a new kind of composite material that comprises wood powder (sawdust) and plastic. A range of plastics including HDPE, PVC, PE, and others may be used for the formulation and manufacturing of the WPC boards. As recycled wood, as well as recycled plastic, can be used towards the manufacturing of WPC boards, these are one of the best environmentally friendly products available today. There unique physical and mechanical properties are also quite beneficial for the end users as well as WPC board manufacturers. Here is a brief look into these aspects.
Physical properties
Because of its inherent structure and composition (which comprises of both wood and plastic), the WPC boards, floors, and decks, among other products, can retain very less amount of moisture and water. Consequently, because of low water absorption, WPC boards do not swell easily even when placed in Marine Environments. They are hence well suited for the interior designing projects for bathrooms, kitchens, and toilets. The substance can resist impacts and is flexible and durable at the same time.
Mechanical properties of WPC
Some of the important aspects of the mechanical property of WPC boards and other products are given below.
Shear strength: Approx. 27 MPa
Bending strength: Approx. 40 MPa
Hence the WPC boards can be said to have more strength in many different areas when compared to wood. WPC also shows good creep resistance, and the use of coupling agents during their manufacture also provides for better bonding with adhesives. As the material does not absorb any water, there are no cracks formed. The WPC boards are today used in the swimming pool decks because of their water absorption capability, which does not waver even in the marine environments.
Low modulus of elasticity
The WPC boards have a very low modulus of elasticity, which can be as low as one-tenth of that of wood. Hence the WPC products can take many different shapes and forms and offer immense flexibility towards their design. This is so because of the high plastic content and ratio in the inherent built of WPC.
WPC boards possess commendable shear strength and moment of inertia and also have low elasticity modulus. They can hence be a preferred structural component. As a material, WPC also has non-structural benefits and can be used towards flooring, decking, and ceiling. WPC board is a long-lasting solution that can have both outdoor as well indoor uses.