Study on the Microstructure and Binding Mechanisms of Selective Laser Sintered Wood Plastic Composite

A new type of wood plastic composite, Eucalyptus/PES(Polyethersulfone) blend, was developed. It was designed to be used in LS (Laser Sintering) with reduced energy usage with cost savings. The preparation of Eucalyptus/PES blend and part sintering were under fixed processing conditions and parameters. Through mechanical testing, it was discovered that the strength of prototypes is low due to the formation of a segregated structure in the composite and a weak wood fiber–plastic particle interface. The specific focus of this paper was on investigating the microstructure and binding mechanisms between these two materials. Combining SEM technology and infrared spectrum analysis, the interface binding form of the wood fiber and PES was confirmed to be mechanical interlock. Also the size and distribution of wood fiber in the PES matrix, which can affect the binding and strengthening mechanism, were analyzed during sintering and crack extension.