Thermoset resin-fiber composites, woodworking dowels and other articles of manufacture made therefrom, and methods

Abstract

A composite material including a thermosetting resin and a fibrous filler material. The composite material is preferably fabricated by dry mixing the thermosetting resin, in powdered form, with the fibrous filler material, and applying an elevated pressure to the dry mixture. The thermosetting resin preferably cures while the mixture is subjected to the elevated pressure. The dry mixture may also be subjected to an elevated temperature. The hardened mass of composite material may be formed into the shape of a desired article of manufacture as an elevated pressure is applied thereto. Alternatively, an article of manufacture may be fabricated from the block of the composite material after formation of the block. The composite material will adhere to glues that have conventionally been used to adhere pieces of wood or wood-like material to one another. Thus, a dowel fabricated from the composite material may be used, in combination with a wood-working glue, to secure two pieces of wood or wood-like material together.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.