Characterization of Physical and Mechanical Properties, and Morphology of Wood Composites Derived from Milk Bottles and Teak Sawdust Powder

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Department of Materials and Medical Technology Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Nakhon Ratchasima, 30000, Thailand

2 Department of Materials snd Medical Technology Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Nakhon Ratchasima, 30000, Thailand

3 Department of Metallurgical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Khon Kaen Campus, Khon Kaen, 40000, Thailand

Abstract

This study aims to develop recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) composites

reinforced with teak sawdust (TS) and evaluate their mechanical properties to determine the

optimal composition for furniture applications. The composites were fabricated through

internal mixing followed by compression molding, utilizing maleic anhydride (MA) as a

coupling agent to enhance interfacial adhesion between TS and the rHDPE matrix. While this

improves impact strength, it simultaneously reduces the overall strength of the composite.

The results revealed that incorporating TS significantly enhanced the mechanical properties

of the composite. At 50 wt%, TS increased the tensile modulus by 120.79% and Shore D

hardness by 10.65% compared to pure rHDPE, while the maximum improvement in flexural

strength (15.29%) was observed at 30 wt%. Conversely, higher TS content led to an increase

in the composite’s density and water absorption while reducing its impact strength. Despite

this trade-off, the enhanced stiffness, strength, and cost-effectiveness make these composites

promising for sustainable, low-cost furniture applications. A cost analysis revealed that the

production cost of these composites is approximately 191 THB/m², significantly lower than

that of conventional wood-plastic composites (WPCs), which range from 400 to 800 THB/m².

This study lies in utilizing TS, an underutilized wood waste, as a reinforcing agent for rHDPE

derived from recycled milk bottles. This approach not only improves the mechanical

performance of rHDPE but also promotes a circular economy by repurposing two types of

waste materials into functional composite materials.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Mechanics of Advanced Composite Structures

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 01 September 2025

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