The paper presents the summary of research on polymer melt particle motion trajectories in a disc zone of a screw-disk extruder. We analysed two models of its structure, different in levels of taken simplifications. The analysis includes computer simulations of material particle flow and results of experimental tests to determine the properties of the resultant extrudate. Analysis of the results shows that the motion of melt in the disk zone of a screw-disk extruder is a superposition of pressure and dragged streams. The observed trajectories of polymer particles and relations of mechanical properties and elongation of the molecular chain proved the presence of a stretching effect on polymer molecular chains.

Composite materials are a constantly evolving group of engineering materials, which has significantly changed their current, and potential role as structural materials over the past decades. Composites offer greater strength, stiffness, and less deformation to structural designers than previously available engineering materials. Resin matrix composites are widely used in the transportation, marine, aerospace, energy, and even sports industries. The manufacturing stage has a profound influence on the quality of the final product. This paper presents the production of composite materials by gravity casting in silicone moulds, using an epoxy/polyester resin matrix reinforced with wood chips and shredded glass fiber reinforced composite from recycled wind turbine blades. Some of the fabricated samples were degassed in a reduced-pressure chamber. The mechanical properties of the produced material were then examined. It was noted that the silicone moulds did not affect the resin self-degassing due to the large surface area to weight ratio, and the remaining small air bubbles had a limited effect on the mechanical properties of the samples. The filler used also played a significant role. Composites filled with crushed GFRC showed better strength properties than composites filled with wood chips. The conducted research is aimed at selecting materials for further testing with a view to their use in the manufacture of next-generation wood-based composite structural materials.