Development of Wood Polymer Nanocomposite

Now days, nanotechnology covers a wide range of area in science and technology. Since many important physical and chemical interactions are governed by surface and surface properties, a nano structured material will have substantially different properties from a conventional composite of same composition. In this study, Wood polymer nanocomposite (WPNC) was developed by using HDPE, LDPE, PP, PVC, wood flour, GMA, PE-co-GMA, PE-g-MA and different nanoparticles viz. nanoclay, SiO2, TiO2 and ZnO. The distribution and exfoliation of nanoparticles was examined by XRD and TEM study. The change in surface morphology due to the addition of compatibilizer and nanoparticles was examined by SEM study. The surface modification of nanoparticles and interaction within the composite was studied by FTIR study. Almost all the mechanical properties improved after the incorporation of nanoparticles. Thermal and flame resistance along with UV resistance properties were improved due to the effect of nanofillers. Incorporation of nanomaterials further enhanced the biodegradability and water resistance of the desired wood polymer nanocomposite.