Abstract
The term "plastic lumber" (PL) has evolved into a sort of generic name acting as an umbrella
for any product used to replace wood products. However, the term represents a wide array of
products, including a plastic by itself; one that contains reinforcements such as glass fibers and
even mineral fillers, except wood (sometimes called "composites"); and mixtures of resins
without reinforcements (also sometimes called "composites"). "Natural fiber-reinforced"
plastics refers to some of these products that include the use of wood and vegetable fibers.
Plastics containing wood as fillers/reinforcements are called by several names, mostly "woodplastic
composites" (WPCs). However, in the trade press and company literature, these products often are
called "plastic lumber." WPCs also can contain mineral fillers, as well.
Regardless of the nomenclature, these product areas are relatively new and have met with success
in terms of consumer acceptance. This BCC report examines the markets for WPCs and plastic lumber
with the addition of the emerging and related natural fiber composites area along with consistent
and meaningful definitions of what constitutes WPCs and plastic lumber
SCOPE OF STUDY
The report contains:
- Definitions of the products studied
- An overview of the historical development of plastic lumber, WPCs and natural fiber composite
materials used to replace wood
- Forecasts through 2009 within four major applications: building products, automotive,
infrastructure and other consumer/industrial products
- Further analysis by major components, namely decking, fencing/windows and doors and other
- Additional analysis by key resins such as polyethylene, PVC and polypropylene within each
application and how they are used
- Detailed discussion of technologies, production, use of additives and required material
properties
- Costs and pricing, marketing and competitive company strategies
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