Industrial hemp: Hidden potential for technical applications in industry, construction and much more
In our previous articles, we have informed you about the potential of cannabis and its use especially in the field of health and pharmacy. However, industrial hemp also has huge technical potential, offering a wide range of applications in industry, construction and many other sectors.
(pictured is the ARROWS technical cannabis team)
Construction
Hemp has the potential to become a revolutionary material in the field of green construction. Hemp stalks can be used to produce building materials such as hemp insulation, hemp boards or hempcrete. These materials are not only biodegradable and environmentally friendly, but also have excellent thermal insulation properties and durability. Just to give an example, hempcrete, which is also a heat and sound insulator, is also lightweight and therefore suitable for various constructions such as walls, floors and roofs.
In the construction of natural buildings, wood often needs to be protected from mould, pests and weathering. Hemp coatings have proven to be an effective choice. Hemp oil is naturally resistant to mold and pests, while protecting wood from moisture. These coatings allow the wood to breathe, but additional protection should be considered for outdoor elements due to UV sensitivity.
Industrial hemp
Industrial hemp can also be used as a raw material for industrial fibre production. Hemp is known for its strength and durability, making it a great material for the production of various types of fibres. Hemp fiber is both lightweight and extremely strong, allowing it to be used in the production of clothing, textile products, and even automotive parts.
Hemp plastics
Hemp can also be used to produce bio-plastics. Traditional plastics made from petroleum derivatives have an environmental impact, while bio-plastics, including those made from hemp, offer a more sustainable alternative. Hemp bio-plastics can be used in a variety of industrial applications, including the production of packaging, cookware and other plastic products.
The plant offers potential applications in the fields of construction, industry, alternative energy, agriculture, food, cosmetics and personal care, as well as ecology. Cannabis can be described as the plant of the future without further ado.
As we are talking about technical hemp, i.e. a cannabis plant containing no more than 1% THC, no licence or permit is required to handle it (with the exception of the obligation to notify the customs authority in the case of cultivation on an area of more than 100 m2).