Effect of fiber and polymer variability on the rheological properties of wood polymer composites during processing

We investigated the effects of fiber variability, size and content on the fusion characteristics of wood particle‐reinforced high‐density polyethylene (HDPE). Five types of wood sawdust were used: eastern white cedar, with sapwood, and heartwood treated separately; jack pine divided into wood and bark; and black spruce. Three different fiber length classes were also used. Composite pellets containing wood particles at 25, 35, and 45% by weight...