A new generation of wood polymer composite with improved thermal stability

The thermal stability of the matrix, wood fibres and composites was investigated using thermogravimetric analysis under air and nitrogen atmosphere. In our study, we have shown a spectacular improvement of thermal stability of the composites under air atmosphere, as opposed to measurement performed under nitrogen. The presence of wood in pebax® hinders the thermo-oxidation in air by the formation of char residue in the earlier stage of degradation. We have also determined an optimal range of wood content in which we observe the protective synergism.