The coatability of commercial WPC and its behaviour in outdoor applications was investigated as part of an EU-funded research project.A long-term study of hydro-2K-PU/hydro-UV coatings(2K-PU/UV)and the influence of binder type,pigmentation and mechanical properties of the binder was carried out.Wood-polymer composites(WPC)with polyethylene(PE)and softwood fibres represent a group of materials for durable,decorative outdoor applications.To improve the decorative properties of WPC,the surfaces are often embossed to resemble wood.The colouring is usually realised by colouring the polymer matrix.However,a lot of pigments are needed and the colour brilliance is not very pronounced.Another option is coextrusion with a coloured PE.However,due to time-consuming re-setting procedures,both processes are not suitable for flexible colour change.Sustainable water-borne paints have therefore been developed that provide a durable protective coating on the WPC for outdoor applications.Weathering results over a period of 10 years are presented.
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