A silicone-polyethylene hybrid technology for more sustainable wood-plastic composites

Addressing the need for innovative and sustainable alternatives in the plastic composites industry, Dow has developed Amplify Si Silicone Enhanced Polymer Systems (SEPS), a silicone-polyethylene hybrid technology that improves product performance and helps divert plastic waste from landfills. Amplify Si PE 1000, designed for wood-plastic composite decking, is the first of a series of products Dow expects to launch under the new SEPS platform.

Mauro Gregorio, business president, Dow Consumer Solutions: 

“Dow’s Amplify Si PE 1000 enables manufacturers to utilize more economical options, such as a variety of recycled plastic and higher levels of fillers, in their wood composite manufacturing processes. By incorporating this product into wood-plastic composite boards, manufacturers can more easily bring new life to recycled plastic, a tremendous contribution to sustainability and product reuse. Amplify Si PE 1000 also reduces energy costs and carbon footprint associated with this manufacturing process.”

Amplify Si PE 1000 allows for higher throughput, lower melt temperature and less thermal degradation, and manufacturers can also expect to see higher production rates, lower rejection rates and overall improvement in the tensile and flex strength of their wood-plastic composite boards. Beyond decking, Amplify Si SEPS can be used with similar results in applications, such as docks, railing, wall cladding, siding, fencing, window profiles, automotive and many other applications.

Gregorio said: 

“This new family of products, which utilizes ‘silicone-polyethylene hybrid technology’, drives sustainability and innovation across many industries, provides a unique value proposition to our customers and helps to facilitate the transition to a circular economy.”

Companies: Dow

Industries: Building and Civil Engineering

Terms: Business, News Worldwide