Plastics Recycling: Using Agricultural Residues to Improve Performance II

The goal of this Phase II SBIR is to commercialize the process to use wheat straw fibers as a means to improve the characteristics of commingled plastic. The Phase I research proved the feasibility of using wheat straw as a filler for commingled plastic. However, in order to commercialize the process, hurdles still need to be overcome in order to have a In order to reach this goal the following objectives have been developed: Improve the mechanical properties of the commingled plastic so it can be automatically fed into the twin-screw extruder. Optimize the chemical additives to improve the binding of the commingled plastic with each other and with the agricultural fillers. Determine methods, such as low-temperature compounding, which can be used in the extruder to both ensure good melt of the plastics but reduce fiber degradation. Look at the long-term weatherability of the plastics to determine their outdoor applications. Work with manufacturers to test the product and incorporate their comments back into the research plan.