Use of grafted aspen fibers in thermoplastic composites: IV. Effect of extreme conditions on mechanical properties of polyethylene composites

Abstract Hardwood fibers of aspen in the form of chemithermo‐mechanical pulp (CTMP) have been used as reinforcement in linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). The effect of composite treatment (immersion in boiling water, heat exposure at 105°C for seven days or at a temperature of −40°C) on resulting mechanical properties were evaluated. The grafted aspen CTMP composites showed by far the best results with regard to secant modulus, tensile strength, energy, and strain when compared to those of wood flour, mica or glass–fiber filled LLDPE, as well as to virgin LLDPE. Finally, the dimensional stability of CTMP aspen‐filled LLDPE composites immersed for four hours in boiling water was better than that of mica or glass–fiber filled LLDPE.