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THRIVE in the US with wood composites

Weyerhaeuser in the US has announced that it has found a new market for tree fibres. The company has developed a new thermoplastic composite that incorporates specially engineered cellulose fibre. Source: Woodworking Network

This fibre is sourced in part from the company’s 20 million acres of sustainably managed forests.

The new composite, called THRIVE, can be used in a variety of applications including automotive parts, office furniture, household goods, appliances and industrial goods.

The cellulose fibres are used in place of fiberglass or mineral reinforcements in the thermoplastic material.

According to Don Atkinson, vice president, marketing and new products for Weyerhaeuser’s Cellulose Fibers business, THRIVE offers excellent tensile strength and flexural properties.

“These composites can improve molding cycle times up to 40%. Products made with THRIVE require less energy to produce and can reduce wear and tear on processing equipment when compared with those containing abrasive short glass fibers.

“These substantial benefits create significant advantages for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprints while enhancing performance and productivity,” Atkinson said in a statement.

Weyerhaeuser is already working with Ford on ways to incorporate the new material into interior and exterior vehicle components – a move which the automotive company says could lessen the environmental impact of the vehicles.

“Specifically, replacing fiberglass, minerals and/or petroleum with a natural, plant-based material can sequester CO2 and ultimately lead to a smaller carbon footprint, among other benefits,” a statement from Ford said.

In addition, the automotive company reports the prototype “components weigh about 10% less and can be produced 20 to 40% faster and with less energy when made with cellulose-based materials compared with fiberglass-based materials.”