Work

Exploring the Sustainable Development Strategy of Wood Flour-Based Composite Materials in Outdoor Furniture

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Wood flour, a landscaping byproduct, poses disposal challenges due to its poor degradability, despite its potential as a sustainable material. This study modified wood powder by synergistically incorporating fly ash and TiO2, followed by curing it with polyamide and epoxy resin to produce high-performance wood powder-based composites suitable for outdoor furniture applications, it can solve the environmental problems caused by fly ash. The research findings indicated that as the TiO2 content increased, the material’s pore size diminished, structural strength improved, and it demonstrated enhanced hydrophobic properties and UV absorption capabilities. The optimal UV absorption performance was observed at a TiO2 content of 1.5%. The combination of TiO2 and fly ash led to the formation of more stable Si-O-Ti and Si-O-Si bonds, which further strengthened the material. Water contact angle and water repellency tests indicated that the 1.5% TiO2 composite showed a 12% increase in compressive strength and a water contact angle of 100.6°, indicating improved hydrophobicity. The addition of TiO2 reduced the number of free-OH groups within the matrix, thereby improving the composite’s hydrophobicity. Outdoor chairs fabricated by mixing 1.5% TiO2-modified wood powder with PET for demolding exhibited excellent structural stability while also being safe and environmentally friendly. This study proposes a feasible preparation strategy for wood powder, enhancing durability through improved mechanical strength, water repellency, and UV shielding. Furthermore, it offers valuable insights into the material modification of wood powder-based materials for the production of outdoor garden furniture.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17209235

Authors: Huidi Zhou, Yuqi Gao, Kaili Zhang

Institution: Beijing Forestry University

Language: English

Topic: Natural Fiber Reinforced Composites

Subfield: Polymers and Plastics

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896