Production of composite materials (WPC) as a factor favoring the retardation of natural resources

Abstract

The paper presents the issue of the production of composite materials from waste plastics with organic filler. In light of the constantly growing consumption of plastics, the consumption of raw materials, mainly crude oil, is increasing. At the same time, the mass of post-production plastic waste and that which is found in the stream of municipal waste, collected both selectively and mixed, is increasing. This waste can be managed as materials that allow to protection of natural resources (crude oil, wood, and fossil minerals). The paper focuses on the possibilities of processing plastic waste into "wood plastics composite" (WPC) granulate. Based on the available data, the potential of Warmia and Mazury was assessed in terms of the availability of plastic waste and waste from the wood industry. On this basis, a simplified investment project was created, the task of which was to assess the profitability of the production of composite material. In addition to the financial assessment, an estimate was also made of the resources that could be protected in the light of the planned investment.