LAMINATE PANELS PRODUCED FROM BIOPOLYMERS

摘要

A method for manufacturing the biopolymer panel may include positioning a plurality of biopolymer sheets adjacent to one another, and subjecting them to a laminating temperature that exceeds the glass-transition temperature of the sheets for a time period sufficient to achieve lamination. The laminate panel is then quenched at a quenching temperature that is below the glass-transition temperature. The time period during lamination, as well as any "rest" period between lamination and quenching, is sufficiently short so as to prevent clouding or hazing as a result of crystallization of the biopolymer resin materials. In addition, the panel exhibits sufficient flame retardency to meet applicable building codes, exhibits sufficient impact resistance for use as a decorative or structural panel building material, and exhibits no substantial thermally induced degradation as a result of subjection to the laminating temperature. The panels may be used as decorative or structural building materials.