Production, properties and potentials of wood-plastic composites application in Poland

Research in the field of wood modification with styrene monomer by means of thermal polymerization resulted in the development of original technology and construction of a pilot plant for the manufacture of a composite, called here lignomer. This material is characterized by high dimensional stability, improved strength properties, and resistance to outdoor conditions as well as to biotic agents' attack. The material can be machined with tools usually used in the woodworking industry and is predisposed for application in agriculture as litterless flooring in cattle rearing, farm buildings, and greenhouses. Lignomer can be used for strengthening railway ties, construction of rolling stock, and containers. Casting patterns made from lignomer have three times longer service life than wooden patterns.