Performance of Hybrid Reinforcements in PVC Composites: III. Use of Surface-Modified Glass Fiber and Wood Pulp as Reinforcements

Abstract

This paper reports on the effect of the composition of hardwood aspen (CTMP) filled with surface-treated glass fibers, and the different treatment of CTMP on the mechanical properties of PVC composites. The properties of composites filled with glass fiber are superior to those submitted to non-treated CTMP Most of the properties (except modulus) of the composites filled with non-treated CTMP or its hybrid combina tions with glass fiber are inferior to those of unfilled polymer. When surface-coated CTMP was used alone or along with glass fiber, most of the properties (except modulus) improved in comparison with those of non-coated CTMP/glass fiber-filled composites. The compositions as well as concentrations of the reinforcement are sensitive to prior treatments of CTMP and individual mechanical properties.