# What is wood–plastic composite (WPC)?

Canonical: https://woodplasticcomposite.net/guides/what-is-wood-plastic-composite/
Language: en
Updated: 2026-09-24
Version: 2
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## Summary

Wood–plastic composite (WPC) combines wood flour or fibres with a polymer matrix and selected additives. Outdoor profiles commonly use thermoplastics. The composition, geometry and manufacturing process together determine the properties of the finished product.

## Two materials, one system

A wood–plastic composite (WPC) combines wood flour or fibres with a polymer matrix. The matrix surrounds the wood component; the resulting material can be formed into profiles or moulded parts. “Composite” describes the combination, not a guaranteed level of performance.

https://woodplasticcomposite.net/guides/what-is-wood-plastic-composite/#section-0

## What each ingredient does

The wood component can contribute stiffness. The polymer gives the mixture a continuous, formable phase. Additives help tailor processing and performance. A formulation is therefore a balance between ingredients, their interaction and the way the product is manufactured.

https://woodplasticcomposite.net/guides/what-is-wood-plastic-composite/#section-1

## Start with the application

A terrace board, a façade panel and an interior moulded component do different jobs. Before comparing products, write down the exposure, loads, appearance and maintenance requirements of your project. Then ask for evidence for the exact profile and installation system being offered.

https://woodplasticcomposite.net/guides/what-is-wood-plastic-composite/#section-2

## Read a specification critically

Separate the material recipe from the finished-product test results. Ask which polymer is used, how the fibre content is stated and whether test specimens match the current product. A high fibre percentage, a recycled-content claim or a long warranty does not answer every performance question.

https://woodplasticcomposite.net/guides/what-is-wood-plastic-composite/#section-3

## Key points

Source, particle size and moisture limits
Polymer identity and feedstock controls
Purpose and verification

## Comparison

Topic | Evidence or meaning | What to check
Wood | Flour or fibres | Source, particle size and moisture limits
Polymer | Continuous phase | Polymer identity and feedstock controls
Additives | Formulation-specific functions | Purpose and verification

## Is WPC the same as solid wood?

No. WPC combines wood-derived material with polymer and needs its own product documentation.

## Is every WPC product PVC-free?

No. The polymer must be identified; the term WPC does not establish that PVC is absent.

## Sources

1. USDA Forest Products Laboratory · Wood/Nonwood Thermoplastic Composites — https://research.fs.usda.gov/treesearch/42497