2A Hemp and Jute

Question 1

Where do hemp and jute come from?

Answer 1

The plant fibres are collected from the phloem (inner bark/skin/bast) surrounding the stem of the Cannabis or flax plant

Question 2

Features of hemp production (3)

Answer 2

• easy to achieve organically (herbicides are not needed)
• grows up to 5 metres in height with dense foliage (blocks weed growth - weed free field for next crop)
• doesn’t require high water requirement

Question 3

End-uses (hemp)

Answer 3

• (archival grade) paper
• cloth
• sails/canvas
• building/construction materials
• production of textiles
• clothing
• rope/cordage

Question 4

Properties (hemp)

Answer 4

• high strength/durability (long fibres)
• breathable
• anti-bacterial
• non-static
• naturally lustrous
• biodegradable

Question 5

How is hemp better than cotton? (environmentally)

Answer 5

• reduces the usage of fertilisers/water/chemicals
• leaves soil enriched
• draws nutrients from deeper soil layers
• grows very tall and thick: shades and mulches the ground, contributing to healthy microbial life (soil)

Question 6

How is hemp better than cotton? (generally)

Answer 6

• fibre bundles are up to 15ft long while cotton fibres are less than an inch
• has 8 times the tensile strength of cotton
• has 4 times the durability of cotton
• more absorbent (takes dye better)
• lasts longer: will not mildew
• softer