Wood-Plastic Composites conference 2014 (review)

The Wood-Plastic Composites conference 2014 took place in Vienna from 3 to 5 November. Themes of this year’s conference, which attracted a large number of participants from Europe and the USA, included global perspectives, standards, decoration and product appearance. Market research carried out by the organiser AMI Consulting shows continued growth in the European WPC market with a total use to date of 180,000 tons. Although a number of standards have already been published on a European level, the call for an ISO standard is becoming noticeably louder. Korea has meanwhile taken over the lead in the development and establishment of such. This makes a European contribution even more desirable, so as to protect European interests. There is a great need for clarification, especially regarding statements made on the durability of the material.

It was this very point that was discussed again following the presentation made by Matthias Peveling (Wöhler Brush Tech GmbH). His presentation on “Decoration and product appearance” dealt with various surface finishing techniques. He also went on to point out the main features influencing the customers’ decision to purchase: That is obviously the technical advantage of WPC over wood, but just as important perhaps are the design and the actual feel of the products. The most commonly used processes in WPC finishing in Europe are brushing and embossing, the latter showing a significant upswing.