Design of abrasion resistant wood plastic composites

The vast majority of monomers used to make plastics are derived from fossil hydrocarbons. Furthermore, most of the commonly used plastics are not biodegradable. As a result, they accumulate in landfills or the natural environment. This has resulted in a societal concern over overcrowding of landfills, climate change, and rapid depletion of natural resources. The use of sustainable cellulosic biomass for wood plastic composites (WPCs) and recycling of plastics for WPC applications provide significant ecological benefits. The proposed project targets to develop a cost effective, light weight and sustainable wood plastic composites by incorporating hemp hurd residues in recycled polyolefins. This work will support NFT’s activities in extending its sustainability effort in the construction and manufacturing sectors. Furthermore, the project will form a valuable multidisciplinary training opportunity for a postdoctoral fellow and other highly qualified personnel.

Faculty Supervisor:

Tiz Mekonnen

Student:

Partner:

Tekle Technical Services Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: