The hemp stalk is probably the more
well-known component of the plant, as its primary- and secondary fibres are
commonly used in textile production (clothing, upholstery and household goods),
plus construction materials, paper and plastics. The woody core of the stalk
(known as the hurds or shives) is the bundle of cellulose-laden
short fibres that can be pressed to make biodiesel and other fossil fuel
products. In fact many modern car companies are already investing in and
researching the viability of hemp components versus plastic and metal in
addition to the resourcefulness of hemp as a biomass crop. You can read in
great detail about the many applications of the hemp stalk (source of the
world’s strongest fibre) in this section.
The hemp stalk presents perhaps the most
usable part of the plant. Primary fibres are longer and tend to be combined
with those of other plants such as bamboo, soy and silk to make durable and
wearable clothes and upholstery. The interior or bast fibres contain almost 80%
cellulose and are perfect for paper production, making building materials and
creating composite materials used in auto manufacturing and even bullet-proof
vests.
Regarding textiles, whether the consumer
needs heavy cordage or fine hemp silk fashions the fibre from the hemp plant is
enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Blended with bamboo, soy, organic cotton
and many other fibres, hemp allows durability and eco-consciousness to combine
with comfort, uniqueness and variety in clothing. Far from the old scratchy
burlap-type fabrics hemp is now cosy and soft to wear while resisting flame and
mould, increasing air flow and lasting longer than other fabrics. Due to the
environmental concerns of the present day many fashion designers and clothing
labels are exploring the hemp textile industry to create affordable, trendy
clothes that may be purchased with a clear conscience.
Since more and more industries are
embracing the hemp plant it is becoming easier to spot commercial fields around
the world. Before you steal a local farmer’s crop, remember that the fields of
closely planted flowering tops are industrial raw materials. Hemp is
traditionally planted in a much denser ratio than Cannabis (usually around 200
plants per m2) in order to promote stretched stalks with minimal
lateral branching. The taller the plant, the longer the fibres!
