Hemp Yields Heat-Resistant Plastic

Why this is here: The new hemp-based plastic can expand to 1,600% of its original size while maintaining its structural integrity.

Scientists in the United States created a new plastic from hemp fibers. The material is a thermoplastic capable of expanding 1,600% of its size and withstanding boiling water without losing its properties. Researchers published their findings in the journal Chem Circularity, noting the plastic’s high glass transition temperature—a rare quality for naturally sourced plastics.

The team hopes cannabidiol, or CBD, extracted from the hemp plant may replace bisphenol-A. Bisphenol-A is a chemical currently used in plastics and considered an endocrine disruptor. This new material could be used in films, coatings, and as a substitute for petroleum-based plastics like PET in food packaging and flexible electronics.

Currently, global CBD production is insufficient to completely replace PET. Researchers are now working to increase the mechanical strength of the hemp plastic and scale up manufacturing.

The study also acknowledges challenges with catalysts used in bioplastic production, which can be difficult to remove and purify. Despite these hurdles, the team believes hemp offers a versatile alternative for farmers and could revitalize agricultural soil.