Polymeric compositions and methods for making construction materials from them

Polymeric composites are described that can be formed into articles of construction to replace similar articles formed of wood and concrete. The composites comprise a polymer component comprising polyolefins preferably obtained as waste or recycle; a rubbery polymeric component preferably obtained from disposed tires; and a reinforcing filler component comprising mica. The mica is preferably of the expanded variety to allow for a reduction in density over similar composites containing traditional mica. The evaporation of volatile compounds initially contained within the different components, primarily the rubbery polymeric component, allows for the production of articles of construction having a foamed inner core in which the foamed cell structure has not been achieved through the use of traditional CO2 generating foaming agents. Processes for forming the articles of construction are provided that include both extrusion and molding techniques.