Hemp Fiber Reinforcement Invented in the USA

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York have developed a new type of reinforcement for concrete based on hemp fiber. While concrete itself is a strong material, buildings made solely from concrete would eventually deteriorate due to environmental factors. To extend the lifespan of concrete structures, builders reinforce concrete by adding materials that increase load-bearing capacity and reduce cracking.

The most well-known material for reinforcement is, of course, steel rebar. The combination of concrete and steel creates reinforced concrete, which is known for its exceptional durability and affordability. However, steel now faces a serious competitor.

Innovative Hemp-Based Technology

Alexandros Tsamis and Den Walczyk, researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, have invented a reinforcement technology that utilizes the remarkable properties of hemp fiber. According to the scientists, their thermoplastic reinforcement made from natural hemp fibers can replace steel in concrete buildings and infrastructure. Additionally, it can extend the lifespan of structures since it is not susceptible to corrosion.

Comparable Strength and Industry Challenges

Preliminary tests of the hemp reinforcement, conducted by Tsamis and Walczyk, showed that its strength characteristics are comparable to steel. However, the construction industry has been slow to adopt this innovation. The main issue is that current methods and equipment for processing hemp stalks often damage the fibers, making it difficult for the industry to obtain high-quality and affordable raw materials for hemp-based reinforcement production.

As a result, the researchers are now focusing on developing new hemp processing technologies to solve this problem. In particular, they hope to improve methods for cleaning, degumming, and decorticating hemp stalks, which are essential steps in extracting the fiber.