Hemp as new insulation material
Hemp is a variety of the cannabis sativa L plant species and finds its use in such diverse products as textiles, paper, clothing, foodstuffs, animal feed and as a bio-fuel for energy. Nowadays hemp is being studied as an alternative to synthetically produced insulation materials such as fibreglass that have been known to present health risks. In order to analyse the viability hemp would have as a natural product for insulation, feasibility studies were conducted looking at the life span of hemp in regard to structural details and application areas. The study looked at such diverse factors as moisture content in insulation layers, fungicide treatments and even its economic and social impact. These studies resulted in a catalogue of building elements and guidelines for installation, highlighting hemp's suitability as an ecological product stemming from a renewable source. The catalogue lists over 40 different building components as an illustrative example of its wide versatility. It's widespread use, as an alternative to synthetic products should contribute towards the reduction of CO2 content and health risk to worker environments. As a natural, renewable resource, exhibiting a wide range of applications, hemp's introduction into the building industry should establish itself as a commonly used and eco-friendly product.
