42 Investor Report Industrial Hemp Sector New Zealand ’ s New Export Opportunity 2020
5 . hemp fibre investment
The uses of Hemp Fibre
The use of hemp fibre dates back centuries , which has resulted in extensive knowledge relating to its cultivation , processing and uses .
Subsequent modern scientific research has revealed the properties of fibre , and its potential for high technology and high value applications .
Funding for research into hemp fibre was originally difficult to obtain due to the negative connotations of cannabis , however in the early 2000 ’ s in some countries ( and in NZ in 2006 ) restrictions on the cultivation and processing of hemp fibre were removed . As a result , substantial research has taken place , in both the public and private sectors , into the attributes of hemp fibre .
The bast fibre and hurd from the stems are suitable for a range of high spec medical applications filters and linen , through to low tech weed mats and insulation materials . These attributes include :
• high tensile strength
• odor resistant
• antibacterial , antimicrobial , antistatic
• mould resistant
• hypoallergenic
• high heat capacity
• absorbent
• conductive
• lightweight
• long fibres excellent for composites
• breathable and blocks
UV rays
• lightweight , strong , substitutes or reduces hydrocarbon plastics
• rapid growth , lower energy than timber
• strong , biodegradable , long carbon chains .