Structure and properties of composite materials with a wood dust filler

Currently, the processing of waste materials based on various wood fillers and thermoplastic polymers is considered to be an effective direction for producing new composite materials with a certain complex of properties. The aim of the study is to determine the possibility of using pulverized wood waste (wood dust) as a filler in polyurethane base for creating materials for shoe soles. The article describes the technology of producing granulate and materials, presents various formulation compositions for materials used for shoe soles manufacturing. Composite materials containing wood dust in the amount of 1-5.0 wt.% as a filler were produced, physical and mechanical properties were investigated and SEM data of the samples' shearing were presented. Addition of the filler allows to use rationally the wastes of sawing and milling, to cheapen considerably the composition, to receive acceptable strength characteristics at maximum filling. Using the wastes of various productions for making new products, it is possible to partially reduce environmental pollution and increase the utilization rate of expensive raw materials which are not produced in Belarus.