Firm propels wood composites production

Firm propels wood composites production
By Julie Bieles

25 September, 2003 – A newly formed UK company has launched a hi-tech recycled wood polymer composite, which may overcome some of the obstacles that have hindered development of the European market.

Recology will manufacture the composite from post-industrial PP films and sawmill residue, with production beginning next year at a new factory in Norfolk. The composite will be used in outdoor garden products such as decking, seating, trellis and fencing, which Recology will produce in kit form.

Recology approached the Waste and Resources Action Programme (Wrap) to help raise the Ј2m investment required to launch both the business and product.

Wrap also part-funded the product through a testing and certification programme at the Building Research Establishment. Following successful testing, Recology is working to set benchmark standards for wood polymer composites in Europe.

Similar products have been marketed in the US, securing almost 10% of the Ј6bn (E8.6bn) a year decking market. Quoting the Horticultural Trade Association, a spokesperson for Recology said she believed the UK market for this type of product could grow by up to 10% per year.