Thermoplastic composites employing sustainably sourced cellulose fibres as their reinforcement additive are being launched by Weyerhaeuser.
Called Thrive composites, it is envisaged the proprietary, patent-pending materials will initially be used in household goods and automotive parts, since they offer several advantages over materials reinforced with short glass fibres or natural fibres such as sisal, hemp and kenaf. Thrive alternatives are available in masterbatch form for custom compounders and ready-to-mould thermoplastic pellets for moulders.