THERMOPLASTIC COMPOSITES CONTAINING LIGNOCELLULOSIC MATERIALS AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME

摘要

A thermoplastic composite includes stabilized raw lignocellulosic materials dispersed in a thermoplastic polymeric matrix. A method for stabilizing the raw lignocellulosic materials in a matrix includes at least one of: a) pre-melting of a thermoplastic polymeric material prior to combining with the raw lignocellulosic materials; b) reducing the melt temperature of the polymeric material; c) increasing the surface compatibilization of the raw lignocellulosic materials; d) thermally stabilizing the lignocellulosic material; and, e) any combinations of a) through d).