A composite containing natural fibres or particles in a matrix. NFC is broader than WPC: flax, hemp and agricultural fibres need not contain wood.
Understand wood–plastic composite: ingredients, history, manufacturing, decking, cladding, advantages, limitations, tests, maintenance and recycling.
Understand WPC, NFC and wood-thermoplastic terminology, and learn which material details architects should request before specifying a composite product.
Examine PLA, PHA, PCL–starch and modified PVA composites, separating renewable feedstock, biodegradability and suitability for outdoor construction.
Learn how phenolic, epoxy and polyurethane systems differ from thermoplastic WPC, including matrix selection, coatings, curing and end-of-life questions.
Understand mesh grades, particle-size distributions, aspect ratio and pith content, and learn how to compare WPC filler specifications accurately.
Explore rice-husk, coconut-shell and banana-pseudostem biochar research, and learn what must be established before using biochar in commercial WPC.
Explore natural-fibre composites for door panels, package trays and interior components, and understand why automotive evidence differs from decking tests.
Understand WPC terminology for composite decking, cladding and fencing: materials, manufacturing, installation, testing and environmental evidence.