| abstract |
The present invention provides a method of producing reinforced composite containing fibre in a polymer matrix comprising the steps of: a. heating and drying a natural fibre-containing material in a hot blending chamber; b. sieving the dried natural fibre-containing material to produce a loose, soft and clean natural fibre free of contaminants and unwanted elements; c. shredding the fibre; d. pre-heating the shredded fibre; e. blending polymer, a nitrogen blowing agent a lubricant with the shredded fibre and optionally a coupling agent; and f. heating the blended mixture to the melting point of the polymer. Also provided is a composite produced by the method and a composite comprising a natural fibre-containing material, a polymer, a nitrogen blowing agent, a lubricant and optionally a coupling agent. Various modular constructions and a weighing assembly made from the composite are also provided. |