The effect of zinc borate and additives on weathering performance of wood-high density polyethylene composite

In this study, the effects of zinc borate with or without UV absorbent and antioxidant on the durability of wood-high density polyethylene (HDPE) composites were investigated during artificial weathering. colorimetry and tensile strength were determined after 0, 500, 1000 and 1500 hrs. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analyses were also carried out before and after 1500 hrs accelerated weathering. The results indicated that zinc borate had no effects on the weathering resistance of wood-HDPE composite. The use of antioxidant increased surface degradation of the composite evidenced by FTIR and DSC analysis. The color and tensile strength stability and FTIR analysis indicated that the composite was protected by UV absorbent.