From WPC to High-performance Ceramics

The basic question of the project was whether it is possible to convert extruded WPC profiles into ceramics. For the transformation of WPC in SiC three process steps were necessary: profile extrusion, pyrolysis of the profiles to carbon templates, and their conversion to SiC through the process of liquid siliconization.

In the course of the project iteratively different wood types, polymers, additives, and fillers were examined. It was shown that WPC is well suited as a basic material for the production of biogenic ceramics.

Compared to existing technologies, this represents a more cost-effective and less time-consuming alternative for the production of technical ceramics on the basis of SiSiC. At the same time significantly more complex geometries than before are possible by means of classic plastics processing techniques.

The project was carried out together with the Chair of Ceramic Materials of Bayreuth University.

The IGF project 337 ZN of the research association FSKZ was supported by AiF within the framework of the program for the promotion of industrial joint research and development (IGF) of the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy.

You can obtain the research report (in German) with full details here (FV 334).