Wood-polymer composites for sustainable construction in Benin

Research by Jonathan Guidigo at the Université de Lorraine and the Université d'Abomey-Calavi shows that wood-plastic composite (WPC), made from plastic waste and wood, offers superior mechanical properties, paving the way for promising industrialization for the local market in Benin.

Jonathan Guidigo's thesis highlights the recovery of plastic and wood waste into sustainable composites, addressing pressing construction needs in Benin. The research responds to the need for a sustainable materials supply while exploring the challenges of industrializing this innovative method.

The extrusion method used to produce the WPC samples demonstrated enhanced mechanical properties, notably increased stiffness and strength thanks to the addition of wood sawdust. This technical advance raises interesting prospects for developing construction materials tailored to local needs.

The findings of this research encourage decision-makers to invest in extrusion technologies for WPC, thereby fostering innovation in the sustainable construction sector. Wood-polymer composites represent a strategic investment opportunity to meet growing demand for eco-friendly materials in West Africa.

« "Adding wood sawdust significantly improves the stiffness and strength of the composite, which could make it a material of choice for construction in West Africa," says Jonathan Guidigo. »

« "This research opens up promising prospects for decision-makers looking to invest in sustainable construction materials, thereby fostering access to innovative solutions," notes the Lektaris team. »