Application of Natural (Plant) Fibers Particularly Hemp Fiber as Reinforcement in Hybrid Polymer Composites
Abstract:
This paper analyses the feasibility of using industrial hemp as a reinforcement in polymer composites for various industrial applications. Moreover, it addresses the need for a more sustainable alternative for mineral (glass) fibre reinforced structural polymer, in line with Polish and European policy. In addition, this paper gives on overview of the long history of hemps industrial purposes.
Key Findings:
Industrial Hemp is an environmentally sustainable way of producing mineral reinforced structural polymers by replacing glass fibres with natural pant fibres
In energy recovery, approximately 98% of the weight of composite structures that had been reinforced with industrial hemp, was converted to energy, potential for use in natural fertiliser
Industrial hemp could contribute to both environmental protection and resource efficiency across multiple sectors, including, automotive, construction, energy and ship building industries
Scheibe, M., Urbaniak, M. and Andrzej Bledzki. (2023). Application of Natural (Plant) Fibers Particularly Hemp Fiber as Reinforcement in Hybrid Polymer Composites - Part I. Origin of Hemp and Its Coming into Prominence, Cultivation Statistics, and Legal Regulations. Journal of Natural Fibers, 20 (2).
Abstract:
This paper analyses the economic viability of replacing mineral (glass) fibre reinforced polymers with a natural plant polymer using industrial hemp. It uses recent sales data from he US to support this.
Key Findings:
Highlights imperative of addressing the challenge of recycling synthetic (mineral) fibre-reinforced polymer structures
Industrial hemp offers advantages such as lower density, reduced production and application costs, renewability, and environmental sustainability compared to the synthetic (mineral) fibers, particularly glass.
Reviews global hemp cultivation to highlight its diverse applications as well as assessing the supply and demand dynamics in the market
Scheibe, M., Urbaniak, M. and Andrzej Bledzki. (2023b). Application of Natural (Plant) Fibers Particularly Hemp Fiber as Reinforcement in Hybrid Polymer Composites - Part II. Volume of Hemp Cultivation, Its Application and Sales Market. Journal of Natural Fibers, 20 (2).
