A travel report for the Rural Industries Research and Development

Corporation by

Carolyn Ditchfield Australian Hemp Resource and Manufacture

May 1998 RIRDC Publication No 98/47

RIRDC Project No TA-978-09

World Hemp and Other Bast Fibre Manufacturing Developments

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© 1998 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation. All rights reserved. ISBN 0 642 54067 5 ISSN 1440-6845 “World Hemp and Other Bast Fibre Manufacturing Developments “ Project No: TA-978-09 Publication No. 98/47 The views expressed and the conclusions reached in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of persons consulted. RIRDC shall not be responsible in any way whatsoever to any person who relies in whole, or in part, on the contents of this report. This publication is copyright. However, RIRDC encourages wide dissemination of its research (providing the Corporation is clearly acknowledged) for the purposes of research, study, criticism or review only as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968. Apart from these uses, no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without the prior consent of RIRDC. For inquiries concerning reproduction, phone the Communications Manager on (02) 6272 3186.

Researcher Contact Details Carolyn Ditchfield 15 Belmont Crescent PADDINGTON, QLD 4064 Phone: 07 3369 5925 Fax: 07 3368 81255 RIRDC Contact Details Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation Level 1, AMA House 42 Macquarie street BARTON ACT 2600 PO Box 4776 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: 02 6272 4539 Fax: 02 6272 5877 email: rirdc@netinfo.com.au Internet: http://www.rirdc.gov.au Published in May 1998 Printed on environmentally friendly paper by the DPIE Copy Centre

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FOREWORD This report covers a trip taken by Carolyn Ditchfield, of Australian Hemp Resource and Manufacture, to the ‘Flax and Other Bast Fibre Plants’ Symposium at Poznan, Poland held between 30 September – 1 October 1997. The intention of the trip was to report back to Australia any new developments occurring in bast stalk processing technologies around the world and to introduce an Australian hemp industry stakeholder to leading international bast fibre researchers.

The report sets out important world findings on harvesting and processing technologies, textile applications of bast fibres and how techniques developed in Poland could be considered in using hemp to mop up contaminated land or water from mining operations or sewerage works in Australia. The report is part of the Corporation's New Plant Products program which facilitates the development of new industries based on plants or plant products that have commercial potential for Australia. Peter Core Managing Director Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

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TABLE OF CONTENTS TRAVEL REPORT................................................................................................................................1

PRIMARY PURPOSE................................................................................................................................1 REPORT SUMMARY................................................................................................................................1

MAJOR FINDINGS...............................................................................................................................2

1. Industrial Systems for Preparation of Cellulose Fibres: IPZS Experience..............................2 2. About New Technology of Processing of Fibre Flax................................................................3 3. Thermally –Induced On-Stem Retting – A New Harvesting System for Flax ...........................3 4. Versatile Line for Homomorphic Flax and Hemp Fibres (Retted and Raw Ones)...................4 5. Modernised Hemp Mower ........................................................................................................4 6. New, High Seasonal Capacity Harvesting Machine for Hemp ................................................4 7. New Economical Technology for Cottonised Flax Fibre Preparation.....................................4 8. Theoretical Principle and Development of the Method of Thermolysis Processing. ...............4 9. Integrated Commercial Production and Processing of Kenaf in Arizona................................5 10. Formaldehydeless Finishing of Textile.................................................................................5 11. Analysis of Ecological Adaptation of Flax in Dry and Cool Areas in China .......................5 12. Comprehensive Utilisation of Flax Cultivation and Processing Techniques in Finland .....6 13. Hemp – Cannabis sativa.......................................................................................................6 14. Marketing of Hemp Products – The Consumer is Key .........................................................6 15. Combine Technology of Harvesting of Hemp Seed Sowings................................................7 16. The Use of Renewable Materials in Structural Design ........................................................7 17. Compressive Strength, Solubility and Mico-Leakage of Flax Reinforced Dental Cement ...8 18. The Use of Flax and Hemp Materials for Insulating Buildings ...........................................8 19. Energy from Bast Fibre Plant Species..................................................................................8 20. Particleboards and Insulating Board on Base Hemp Shives and Hemp Straw....................9 21. Flax and Its Wild Relatives as Affected by Genetic and Environmental Factors ...............10 22. Analysis of Vegetable Oils Obtained from Plants Grown on Heavy-Metal Polluted Areas 10 23. Phytoremediation of Soils Contaminated by Copper Smelter Activity. Part I...................10 24. Phytoremediation of Soils Contaminated by Copper Smelter Activity. Part II .................11 25. Three Year Results on Utilisation of Soil Polluted by Copper-Producing Industry...........11

SIGNIFICANCE TO AHRM ..............................................................................................................13

BENEFITS TO RURAL INDUSTRY ................................................................................................14

RECOMMENDATIONS .....................................................................................................................16

APPENDIX 1 ........................................................................................................................................17

FLAX AND OTHER BAST PLANTS SYMPOSIUM PROGRAM ....................................................................17 Session I..........................................................................................................................................17

Harvesting and Processing of Flax and Other Bast Plants .......................................................................... 17 Session II ........................................................................................................................................18

Non-Textile Application of Flax and Other Bast Plants ............................................................................. 18 Session III .......................................................................................................................................18

The Role of the Bast Fiber Plants in Recultivation of Polluted Areas ........................................................ 18 FLAX AND OTHER BAST PLANTS POSTER SESSION..............................................................................18

Session I..........................................................................................................................................18 Harvesting and Processing of Flax and Other Bast Plants .......................................................................... 18

Session II ........................................................................................................................................19 Non-Textile Applications of Flax and Other Bast Plants............................................................................ 19

Session III .......................................................................................................................................19 The Role of the Bast Fibre Plants in Recultivation of Polluted Areas ........................................................ 19

Session IV .......................................................................................................................................20 Other Topics ............................................................................................................................................... 20

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TRAVEL REPORT Primary Purpose Past reports on hemp have suggested that improvements to traditional bast stalk fibre processing must occur within Australian before the industry can become economically viable. Many countries around the world have established bast fibre industries and continue to develop new technologies for processing their crops. This particular symposium was convened to bring together all those interested in, or involved with, stalk processing. It was anticipated that it would provide an insight into new directions or options that Australia could consider for its emerging bast fibre industry. Report Summary The symposium attracted worldwide interest. Delegates from Western and Eastern Europe, the Middle and Far East, America and Australia were present. Although English was the official language for the symposium, not all delegates were fluent in the language, often making comprehension difficult. Session 1 concentrated on harvesting and processing technologies. Unfortunately very few of the papers could be said to be innovative. The overriding theme throughout the day was finding improvements in mechanical performances, rather than changes in stalk handling. Simplistically, attention had been given to reducing labour inputs and speeding up processing times of traditional stalk production systems. Developments presently evolving in Australia hold more promise of revolutionising the production system. Session 2 concentrated on non-textile applications of bast fibres. The range of products being developed and, in some cases, commercialised was very novel and exciting. Products included: structural materials, composites, insulation, energy, as well as reinforced dental cement, to name a few. The Australian manufacturer, who attended the symposium and also sponsored Australian Hemp Resource and Manufacture to the event, had a particular interest in fibre-based composites. A new composite material being developed by a New Zealand/Australian consortium overcomes many of the problems described by the symposium researchers, as well as having better strength, fire and aesthetic properties. Session 3 concluded the symposium and included some papers that highlighted the benefits of using hemp in soils contaminated with heavy metals, such as found around copper smelters scattered throughout Poland. Using the results in these papers, there appears to be scope for considering the use of hemp in mopping-up contaminated land or water due to mining operations or sewerage works in Australia. The symposium provided unexpected confirmation that industry attitudes and developments underway in Australia hold the most promise for revolutionising the bast fibre industry and pushing it toward the 21st century. Australia has the potential, and enviable position of supplying the best in fibre technology, equipment and material to a world that is moving rapidly towards a renewable, biodegradable, sustainable future.

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MAJOR FINDINGS The Symposium was held at, and organised by the Institute of Natural Fibres. This institute is also the Co-ordination Centre of the FAO European Co-operative Research Network on Flax and Other Bast Plants acting within ESCORENA system. Twenty-four papers were presented at the ‘Flax and Other Bast Plants’ symposium, as well as a number of posters (see Appendix 1). Presentations were divided into three general topics: • Harvesting and Processing of Flax and Other Bast Plants; • Non-Textile Application of Flax and Other Bast Plants and • The Role of the Bast Fibre in Plants in Recultivation of Polluted Areas. Delegates came from around the globe with twenty-five countries represented at the symposium. These included: United Kingdom, Iceland, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Egypt, Czech Republic, Russia, Poland, Ukraine, China, USA, and Canada. Representatives of Ministries of Agriculture from England, Iceland, Russia, Ukraine and Poland were also present. Although the symposium was conducted in English, not all the papers presented were entirely comprehensible. A summary of all the papers are presented below. 1. Industrial Systems for Preparation of Cellulose Fibres: IPZS Experience This paper was conducted with the support of the EC Commission. It explores ways of utilising bast fibre crops as a means of enhancing European agriculture by overcoming their surplus food production. Emphasis was placed on determining the best technological means of processing bast stalk; a non-uniform organic material made up of bast and core fractions and a diverse array of chemical bonds. It was agreed that steam explosion, ultrasonic, and enzymatic treatments showed promise but were yet to become a commercial reality. IPZS (Italy) are particularly interested in applications for their pulp and paper division. Fibre preparation commences on the farm with harvest, preferably when the plant is mature and dried. Stalks are cut using machines that cut hay round bales making it easier to sift out loose material, metal and stones. A blade mill then cuts the material into chips of selected size lengths, depending on its end-use. The raw material is then cleaned and rotocompacted (rotary pressed) to compress the xylem and increase its absorption capacity. A revolving drum separates the core from the bast fibres. These steps help clean and standardise the raw material ready for further processing. All of the above machines exist, though some have been recently modified. In some cases the raw material from the process outlined above can be passed directly onto the consumer, e.g. as panels, webs and animal bedding. A further process is required if the fibres are to be reduced down to their elementary fibres. Using strong steam injections Refiner Mechanical Pulps (RMP) can be obtained that are ideal in paper furnish (30-50%) with wastepaper for increasing paper bulk and stiffness using less chemicals.

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An alternative method uses a special enzyme cocktail in a continuous process to dissolve the chemical bonds holding the fibres together. This particular process is patented. Raw material from this process is ideal for textiles, or non-woven and thermocomposites where lower grade fibres are used. Fibres obtained from these processes produced products that compared well with traditional reference products.

(photocopy diagram p8) 2. About New Technology of Processing of Fibre Flax This paper describes modifications to outdated fibre separation units in the Ukraine. Although the improvements described may be mechanically interesting, the process itself merely imitates highly evolved systems in Western Europe. 3. Thermally –Induced On-Stem Retting – A New Harvesting System for Flax This paper created a lot of interest. It described an innovative process developed in Germany that thermally-induced on-stem retting. Heat is applied to the stalks while standing, green, in the field, using gas burners mounted on large mobile frames that straddle the crop. The advantage of this system is to dry the stalks quickly and effectively, thereby preserving the fibres against the vagaries of the weather, until harvesting can commence. It also obviates the need for turning the crop and contaminating it with soil, while reducing harvest to the one passover. The project has undergone pilot testing, but is yet to become commercially feasible. The general consensus from the audience though was one of scepticism at the program’s commercial future.

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(photocopy picture p.19) 4. Versatile Line for Homomorphic Flax and Hemp Fibres (Retted and Raw

Ones) This paper describes modifications to outdated fibre separation units in the Ukraine. Although the improvements described may be mechanically interesting, the process itself merely imitates highly evolved systems in Western Europe. 5. Modernised Hemp Mower This paper describes modifications to outdated Russian hemp mowers. It merely improves the efficiency of the old mowers. Equipment in Western Europe holds more promise for inclusion in Australian farming systems. 6. New, High Seasonal Capacity Harvesting Machine for Hemp Essentially repeating the paper above. 7. New Economical Technology for Cottonised Flax Fibre Preparation (Boiling

and Bleaching) This describes a new process for cottonising flax fibre that is currently under patent. Fibres were boiled and bleached simultaneously using a silicon-organic chemical that acts as a wetting and dispersing agent while stabilising hydrogen peroxide decomposition. The boiling and bleaching time is reduced and extraction of lignin and waxes more effective. The whole process is ecologically clean. Another option uses liquid ozone that is more effective for bleaching high lignin content materials. Fibres processed this way are aseptic and hygroscopic making them ideal for use in hygroscopic wadding, hygienic tampons, surgical bandages. 8. Theoretical Principle and Development of the Method of Thermolysis

Processing for Scutched Flax Fibre. This process was discovered as a result of an excessive flax residue waste problem (leftover fibres from processing stalk for textile use) in the Ukraine. The processing plant is essentially an extruder that uses high temperatures to convert the material into high-grade charcoal within 55 minutes. A semi-commercial plant has been set up.

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9. Integrated Commercial Production and Processing of Kenaf in Arizona This paper was presented by a private organisation from the USA who had surprisingly similar objectives, strategies and goals to Australian Hemp Resource and Manufacture. They are a newly formed company who has primarily focused on kenaf production in Arizona. Their central objective is “vertical integration of all participants from growers through to end-uses” which should provide a model for agricultural, co-operative, and rural development by enabling the development of industrial crop production, processing, and manufacturing in rural areas, thus helping to revitalise the economies of these communities. This company noted that, “Fib(er) resources, principally wood, are becoming increasingly scarce. In the United States alone, the demand for fib(er) is greater than the combined demand for all steel and plastic products.” Identified uses for kenaf fibre include construction materials, insulation, pulp and paper products, textiles, livestock feed, and other agricultural and industrial materials. They have a number of customers who have evaluated the use of agro-based fibres, and are currently looking for a source of processed fibres. “European auto manufacturers are leading the way in reducing the use of fib(er)glass in automobile manufacturing. Mercedes and Volvo are planning to produce cars that are completely recyclable. Ford has announced plans to phase out the use of fib(er)glass by the year 2000.” Chrysler’s policy is to build cars with completely recyclable interiors by the year 2000. They believe that kenaf crop yields have a potential to be increased by 60%-150% in Arizona using irrigation and a breeding program. 10. Formaldehydeless Finishing of Textile This process uses an ecologically clean silicon-organic chemical (polyethylsiloxane emulsion) which is currently under patent. Traditional formaldehyde-based treatments are toxic to factory workers as well as those who use the fabric. It also makes fabrics firm and heavy. This new chemical treatment results in fabrics that are thermally stable, shrink resistant, softer, with less friction, better dyeability, as well as having fungicidal and aseptic properties. The dressing also reduces crease and impurity levels in finished fabrics and resists degradation by weather, sunlight, chemical cleaning and washing. 11. Analysis of Ecological Adaptation of Flax in Dry and Cool Areas in China This paper provides a general discussion about the history of flax production in China, and particularly the current emphasis of using ‘double flax’, i.e. flax that has been specifically bred for both stalk and oil production. It is stated that flax is a drought tolerant plant and widely adapted to poor ecological conditions (sandy soils, irregular water).

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12. Comprehensive Utilisation of Flax Cultivation and Processing Techniques in Finland

Finland commenced a three-year comprehensive program for flax production, starting in 1995. Identifying markets was a primary objective for both high quality foodstuffs (oil and meal) and insulation material and potting medium (stalk). This program aimed at: 1) producing high yielding, early maturing linseed varieties with favourable fatty acid

compositions; 2) developing cultivation and processing techniques for utilising both the seed and

fibre; 3) developing modern methods for exploitation of linseed and flax straw; 4) boosting co-operation between research, economics, regional administration and

training. This program has been deemed a success with twenty commercial flax products entering the market to date, as well as participating enterprises winning prizes for their innovative activities. 13. Hemp – Cannabis sativa This paper gives a brief history about hemp textiles. It is stated that hemp is more difficult to wet spin than flax because speeds need to be reduced by a third and water trough temperatures need to be higher, while spinning reaches must be up to 4 inches. A solution to these problems may be in the use of an enzymatic treatment of hemp prior to boiling and rinsing. Advantages to hemp though include, low input of fertilisers, crowding out of weeds and absence of pesticides or agro-chemical usage. The oil content of hemp compares in yield per hectare with rape and sunflower oils. It is said that dioecious hemp plants can yield up to 50% more fibre than monoecious varieties. Comparative prices per ton for pre-hackled fibre is: Flax (dew retted) US$1,750 Hemp (dew retted) US$1,100 De-gummed Ramie US$2,000 Jute (water retted) US$ 500 Jute fibre has severe technical limitations due to its high degree of lignification, and flax is not suited to tropical agriculture. Hemp could fill this gap, particularly if a cost effective enzymatic softening and splitting process was found. 14. Marketing of Hemp Products – The Consumer is Key Expansion of the industrial hemp industry must take into account consumer preferences and choices, and the model proposed for analysing this is the ‘buying hierarchy’ that takes into account exposure, awareness, knowledge, attitude formation, intentions and purchase.

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One marketing strategy that is suggested in this paper is to move away from niche marketing and marijuana-associated marketing, and move towards intermingling hemp products with traditional substitutes. This way purchases will be made on the merit of the product itself, rather than from the fact it is made from ‘hemp’. This method is called linking a product to a positive experience, and should ensure that hemp continues to expand into the market place. 15. Combine Technology of Harvesting of Hemp Seed Sowings A film was shown to demonstrate the machine. It was a modification on traditional Russian equipment. However, it is felt that Western European machinery hold more promise for Australian farming systems. 16. The Use of Renewable Materials in Structural Design This paper describes the ambitious program being conducted in Germany of embedding natural reinforcing fibres into a bio-polymeric matrix made of derivatives from cellulose, starch, lactic acid etc. These are otherwise known as biocomposites, whose production is CO2 neutral, completely slag free, and are biodegradable at the end of their lifetime (through decomposition or combustion). Biocomposites are comparable in mechanical properties to glass fibre reinforced plastics (GFRP), and can replace them in most cases. Fibre reinforced plastics can be enhanced by arranging long fibres in the direction of the applied forces in order to create lightweight structures with non-isotropic properties optimally tailored to specific requirements. Natural fibres are attractive because of their low density, and their hollow structures which increase the ‘weight related bending resistance and buckling strength’ potential. Natural fibres are remarkable in terms of specific strength compared with glass fibres. Hemp, flax and ramie are the most promising natural fibres for use in lightweight structural products (see diagram below).

The matrix being investigated for biocomposite construction, by definition must be made from biologically renewable resources. Three polymers that have been studied are polyester, modified cellulose and modified starch.

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Problems that still need to be overcome include: matrix strength, viscosity of matrix at processing temperature, alignment of fibres, adhesion between fibre and matrix, flame resistance and ease of manufacturing. Note: Every one of the problems outlined above has already been overcome by a group of scientists based in New Zealand and Australia. They have come up with a new material that looks like wood, is fire proof, has deformation and tensile strength above steel, is water proof and insect proof, can be sawed and is manufactured efficiently and cheaply. They use hemp fibre pulled through a matrix made from organic waste material. 17. Compressive Strength, Solubility and Mico-Leakage of Flax Fibres

Reinforced Zinc Oxide Eugenol Dental Cement Material Dental cement made from zinc oxide eugenol (ZOE) tends to have low compressive strength, solubility and micro-leakage properties. This study found that reinforcing the cement with flax fibres (0.1% and 0.2%) resulted in improvements to all these problems. Material was prepared by selecting homogeneous flax fibres and chopping them into small pieces ready for grinding. The fibres are then sieved and mixed with ZOE cement powder. Increases in compressive strength were up to 70.83%, which may relate directly to the quantity of fibre present, or to the inclusion of cellulosic structures that create new chemical reactions to form more cohesive masses. 18. The Use of Flax and Hemp Materials for Insulating Buildings Ecological building is a rapidly growing market in Germany (6% of market in 1995). This entails minimising the use of resources and environmental impacts during the production of building materials, construction, use, re-use and building disposal. Flax fibre for insulation is a commercial reality in Germany. Only fine retted flax fibre can reduce thermal conductivity to glasswool standards. Coarser fibres, such as linseed and hemp, require high mat densities to reach this level (0.04W/moK). Modifications in building practice such as thicker insulation layers, or an increase in acceptable thermal conductivity to 0.05 W/moK, would greatly simplify the incorporation of natural fibres. Results did show that a simple resistance to air flow test would be sufficient to predict mat thermal conductivity as affected by mat density for a wide variety of fibre raw materials. 19. Energy from Bast Fibre Plant Species – Potential and Impact on

Environment and Development Natural fibres can be converted into a wide variety of energy carriers using existing and novel conversion technologies, and thus have the potential to be significant new sources of energy into the 21st century. Biomass currently contributes almost 15% to the global primary energy consumption. All plant species which store primarily carbohydrates or oils are suitable for producing liquid energy sources. Cellulose, starch, sugar and inulin can be used to

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produce ethanol. Vegetable oils can be used as fuels. Lignocellulose can provide energy directly as solid fuels or indirectly after conversion. Special emphasis is placed on high yielding energy crops.

(photocopy diagram p.89) Introduction of energy crops allows a significant quantity of renewable fuels to be consumed and energy produced without markedly increasing the CO2 content of the atmosphere, therefore biofuels make a positive contribution to the “Greenhouse Effect”. 20. Particleboards and Insulating Board on Base Hemp Shives and Hemp Straw Long, short, decorticated, green water- and dew-retted fibre, shives and stalks (whole or disintegrated) have exceptional advantages as a raw material for the production of different lignocellulose-polymer composites, particleboards, medium density fibreboards (MDF) and insulating boards. These advantages lie in suitable bulk density, thermal conductivity, strength, moisture, absorbency, hygroscopicity as well as ease of processing and versatility of applications. Hemp had the lowest water absorption capacity of a range of plant materials, a major problem with most composite building materials. Currently many countries make lignocellulosic particleboards using the core fraction of bast crop stalks. Core properties do differ depending on geographical location, fertilisation, variety etc. MDF boards require a more homogenised form of raw material which is possible using Sunds Defibrator. This product has higher value than ordinary particleboard and used in furniture, moulding, veneers. It is suggested that hemp is ideally suited for this product. Hemp has very high insulating properties suited for producing good quality insulating boards.

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Combustibility of these products is radically reduced with the use of a patented product called Fobos M2L that effectively mineralises the stalk. It also acts as a fungicide. Unlike polystyrene and polyurethane foam boards, no toxic smoke is released from these natural boards. The price for producing hemp-based composite materials compares favourably with current products on the market. 21. Elemental Composition of Flax and Its Wild Relatives as Affected by Genetic

and Environmental Factors It was found that domesticated flax varieties and wild types differ in their ability to accumulate mineral elements from the soil. This may have practical applications in solving problems of environmental pollution, particularly in efforts to decontaminate or recultivate polluted land. 22. Esters of Aliphatic Alcohols and Fatty Acids Present in Vegetable Oils

Obtained from Plants Grown on Heavy-Metal Polluted Areas as Diesel Fuels and Lubricating Base Oils

Pollution of rape, hemp and linseed plants did not significantly affect the chemical composition of fatty acids in their oils. Contamination of these oils with heavy metals remained below levels permitted by Poland’s Health Ministry. Esters extracted from hemp and linseed oils showed the poorest thermooxidation stability, and were therefore unsuited for fuel, lubricating and/or hydraulic oil. In contrast, rapeseed oil may be successfully used as an alternative environmentally compatible fuel for diesel engines. 23. Phytoremediation of Soils Contaminated by Copper Smelter Activity. Part I Agricultural areas contaminated by copper smelter residues have been entirely excluded from agricultural production and often reforested. Copper and lead are the main pollutants in these areas. It was found that flax and hemp were good bio-indicators of soil contaminated with copper or lead. Hemp uptakes heavy metals more readily than flax and accumulates it in the leaf. A summary of results Copper uptake cereals : leaf≥straw>grain flax : leaf>roots≥seeds>straw rape : leaf≥roots>straw>seeds hemp : leaf>roots>seeds>straw Lead uptake cereals : leaf≥straw>grain flax : roots>straw>seeds>leaf rape : leaf>straw>seeds>roots hemp : leaf>straw>roots>seeds

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24. Phytoremediation of Soils Contaminated by Copper Smelter Activity. Part II To minimise the effects of heavily polluted soils surrounding copper smelters, cultivation of non-food crops was explored. This is also seen as an economical solution to the problem. Currently is costs US$50-1,000 to clean 1 ton of soil. There are essentially three ways in which non-food crops can contribute to soil remediation: 1) phytoextraction – metal accumulating plants are used to transport and concentrate

metals from the soil into the harvestable fractions of the plant; 2) rhizofiltration – absorption, precipitation and concentration of toxic metals by

plant roots from polluted effluent; 3) phytostabilisation – mobility of heavy metals are reduced by accumulating in

heavy metal plants. Soil remediation is also suited to areas found around mining industries, non-ferrous metal processing industries, along motorways and areas of dense population. 25. Three Year Results on Utilisation of Soil Polluted by Copper-Producing

Industry To avoid heavy metals entering the food chain from contaminated soils, industrial crops that could continue to provide attractive returns to growers were considered. These crops gradually remove metals from the soil by immobilising them in plant material. The study determined the soil pollution level, the effect heavy metals had on crop growth and development, and optimum cultivation techniques that ensured high yields and harvest quality. There were big differences in metal uptake between species, but also between fractions of the plant within species. Suggested rotations of non-food crops is suggested, e.g. hemp, flax, wheat mulch, faba bean mulch, barley mulch, reed canary grass. Flax accumulated the highest concentrations of copper and lead in the chaff, and the highest concentration of zinc in the seeds. Cadmium was mostly concentrated in the stems. Hemp accumulated the highest concentration of copper in the seeds, with lead and zinc high in the stems. Cadmium remained low throughout. There was no evidence of a negative effect on growth and development Reed Canary grass, artichoke and side accumulated very high levels of copper and lead, and had very high yields that appeared to be unaffected by the pollution. Unfortunately due to differences in cultivation requirements it is difficult to include artichoke and side in these in a normal crop rotation system.

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Note: In discussion after the presentation of the papers on soils contaminated with heavy metals it became obvious that there was no plan being undertaken to physically remove the heavy metals off polluted lands. Rather it was a system to cope with high levels of pollution – a way of learning to live with the problem. AHRM and a Canadian delegate suggested that the whole plant could be removed so that the immobilised metals could be either extracted from the plant material for reuse, or accumulated into a safe dumping ground. It was agreed that small amounts of metal will be removed yearly through the sale of either fibre or oil, but could be speeded up significantly if the whole plant was removed each year. Suggestions of actually using this method to ‘clean’ their soils appeared to be a very foreign concept.

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SIGNIFICANCE TO AHRM This symposium provided another opportunity for AHRM to catch up with leaders in the field of bast fibre crops and keep abreast of new developments occurring around the world. It was interesting to note the inclusion of both hemp and kenaf into the program. The Chairperson for the event highlighted the remarkable impression hemp has made on the natural fibre market, with predictions that it will continue to expand in market share and product diversity. Hemp was viewed as playing a key role in stimulating and energising new interest in the traditional fibre market industry. Major flax companies, both engineers and textile manufacturers, are beginning to shift some of their focus towards hemp production systems. Fortunately only small modifications to their highly evolved flax systems are necessary. Kenaf was viewed with interest, especially by the many delegates who had never heard of it before. It was pointed out though, that the crop would not necessarily be suited to Europe, but could play an important role in the lower latitudes. Overall there was little evidence of real innovation, but merely modifications on old themes. AHRM was left with the impression that developments occurring within Australia held more promise of change and improvement in the industry. Traditional steps of bast fibre production and processing remain essentially the same – sow, harvest, rett, turn, dry, decorticate, scutch and hackle. This requires many passovers of the land with a variety of machines, it relies on favourable weather conditions, and results in large losses of high grade fibre after decorticating, scutching and hackling (50-60% lost as tow). There were hints that alternatives exist (e.g. papers 2 & 13), but it is an Australian inventor who has taken positive steps towards putting these into action. The system being invented harvests and decorticates the stalk in one step. Enzymes are then used to breakdown the bonds between the bast fibres. The resulting product is white, untangled, with no fibre loss. The other exciting discovery made at the symposium was the confirmation that scientists in New Zealand/Australia have developed a fibre composite superior to any currently under development in the EU. As well as solving many of the technical and structural problems being encountered in Europe, the New Zealand/Australian product is aesthetically more appealing and versatile. It is a truly organic, renewable, biodegradable and sustainable product made of both an annual bast fibre crop as well as a biological waste product. This product is set to take advantage of building and structural markets throughout the world.

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Poland appear to be the leaders in using bast fibre crops for soil rehabilitation, although Russia is beginning to investigate this option (paper 21), and reports claim that the Ukraine is using hemp to mop-up Chernobyl. It came as a disappointment though that the term ‘rehabilitation’ had been restricted to merely cultivating formally unproductive land profitably, rather than actively extracting pollutants from the soil for safe disposal or reuse. Discussions with Australian scientists who have investigated heavy metal sequestration in plant materials agree that there are ways of safely disposing of these contaminants, and support the idea of starting such a program in Australia. There is also mounting interest in using these non-food type crops for wastewater disposal systems by local Shire Councils and piggeries for similar reasons. Further contacts were made with suppliers of bast fibre crop harvesters and processing equipment. For more information contact Australian Hemp Resource and Manufacture on (07) 3369 5925. BENEFITS TO RURAL INDUSTRY The symposium provided contact with reputable companies that have been established in the flax industry for decades. The accumulated technology for flax is also applicable to hemp and possibly kenaf crops, and may provide good leads into obtaining more information to assist in developing harvesting and processing equipment for all bast crops, or making a direct purchase. The symposium did exemplify the ingenuity of Australia. Unfortunately many Australians need evidence of an idea working in another country before they will commit to something. This is especially so with new industry, where all proof must come from elsewhere before it is accepted as realistic here. This makes it extremely difficult for new ideas to find support, and are often moved offshore in frustration. Australia has new innovations that are set to revolutionise the bast fibre industry worldwide. The principle being used by an Australian innovator to develop his revolutionary harvesting and processing system for bast fibre has been validated by numerous engineers, but unfortunately is still held in derision by many, and is being stymied by lack of support. The new structural composite product being developed in New Zealand/Australia has excited all those who have seen it, but the group is finding it impossible to locate supplies of hemp fibre. Extremely high demand for processed hemp products is restricting access to the raw material needed by the group. They view Australia as the ideal country to extend their factory facilities because of its ability to grow large quantities of raw material, and its proximity to Asian markets. Unfortunately Australia views this whole industry sceptically, and continues to emphasis the lack of interest by anyone except growers, when if fact they other interest groups do exist.

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It has been pointed out in many reports being written in Australia that a bast fibre industry is not viable because there is no feasible harvesting or processing systems for the crop. This symposium gave evidence that feasible processing systems, from seed to market, exist throughout the world, and given Australia’s innovations already being developed, our rural industry is in the enviable position to take full advantage of this industry.

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RECOMMENDATIONS 1. Form a national bast fibre industry association. This would be a definitive

way to assess the real interest in Australia, and what can be offered to the industry. It also provides a central co-ordinating point for information dissemination and incoming queries, unlike now where the industry is made up of fragmented small groups and individuals.

2. Take away disincentives for those interested in growing, processing and manufacturing bast fibre crops. Desktop reports, using outdated and out of context information continues to discourage participants and supporters of this industry. Also, standards for bast fibre products need to be reassessed as imported products are often contravening regulations to the complete disadvantage of the emerging domestic industry.

3. Determine the value and potential of the emerging global market for renewable, biodegradable, sustainable products. Changes occurring throughout Europe are having a profound influence on the direction research and industry is taking globally. To be market leaders, or at least participants, Australia must keep up and be aware of these global trends.

4. Study the implications of using bast fibre crops as a CO2 sink. This is particularly relevant in cropping areas, and may play an important role in contributing to current ‘Greenhouse Challenge’ initiatives as well as providing future tax incentives to thousands of growers.

5. Follow the lead of Japan by increasing the non-wood fibre content of all paper products produced in Australia to 5% by the Year 2005 (Japan aims at 10% non-wood fibre by the Year 2000).

6. Create an industry strategy to ascertain both the short -term and long -term benefits of a bast fibre industry for Australian agriculture, processing, manufacturing and exporting sectors using up-to-date information from those involved in the industry worldwide.

7. Encourage and support wastewater management schemes using bast fibre crops. There are many interested Shire Councils and piggeries throughout Australia interested in researching bast fibre crops for this purpose. This is particularly relevant for contaminated wastewater that should not enter the food chain.

8. Support and encourage Australian innovations. Waiting for overseas evidence that this industry will work in Australia before support is given is ensuring that Australia becomes a market follower rather than a market leader. Overseas interests are already approaching Australians for their inventions in the bast fibre industry. Lack of support in Australia is forcing them to seriously consider going offshore as their only option.

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APPENDIX 1 Flax and Other Bast Plants Symposium Program Session I Harvesting and Processing of Flax and Other Bast Plants Cappelletto, P., Mongardini F. & Bilancini, I. (Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello

Stato, Italy) - Industrial Systems for Preparation of Cellulose Fibres: IPZS Experience.

Giliazatdinov, R.N. (Institute of Bast Crops, Ukraine) – About New Technology of Processing of Fibre Flax.

Heinemann, O. (Institute for Agricultural Engineering, Germany) Thermally-Induced On-Stem Retting, A New Harvesting System for Flax.

Mankowski, J., Kaniewski, R. & Rynduch, W. (Institute of Natural Fibres, Poland) – Versatile Line for Homomorphic Flax and Hemp Fibers (Retted and Raw Ones).

Kaniewski, R., Mankowski, J., Rynduch, W. & Baraniecki, P. (Institute of Natural Fibres, Poland) – Modernized Hemp Mower.

Kaniewski, R., Leuschner, J. & Kranemann, H. (Institute of Natural Fibres, Poland & World Hemp Center, Germany) – New, High Seasonal Capacity Harvesting Machine for Hemp.

Sinelnikova, V.I., Smerechenskaja, N.R. & Karpets, I.P. (Ukrainian Research Institute of Textile Production, Ukraine & Institute of Agriculture of Ukrainian National Academy of Sciences, Ukraine) – New Economical Technology for Cottonized Flax Fibre Preparation (Boiling and Bleaching).

Chursina, L.A., Klevtsov, K.N., Karpets, I.P. & Vergunov, V.A. (Industrial University, Ukraine & Institute of Agriculture of UAAS, Ukraine) – Theoretical Principle and Development of the Method of Thermolysis Processing for Scutched Flax Fibre.

Lloyd, E. & Bowden, M. (Arizona Fibers Marketing, USA) – Integrated Commercial Production and Processing of Kenaf in Arizona.

Smerechenskaja, N.R., Potapenko, I.V. & Sinelnikova, V.I. (Ukrainian Research Institute of Textile Production, Ukraine) – Formaldehydless Finishing of Textile.

Xinwen, Li (Inner Mongolia Institute of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, China) – Analysis of Ecological Adaptation of Flax in Dry and Cool Areas in China.

Luostarinen, M. & Pirkkamaa, J. (Agricultural Research Centre of Finland, Finland & Agropolis Ltd., Finland) – Comprehensive Utilization of Flax Cultivation and Processing Techniques in Finland.

Mackie, G. (United Kingdom) – Hemp, Cannabis sativa. Kolodinsky, J. (University of Vermont, USA) – Marketing of Hemp Products – The

Consumer is Key. Rudnicov, N.V. (Institute of Bast Crops UAAS, Ukraine) – Combine Technology of

Harvesting of Hemp Seed Sowings.

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Session II Non-Textile Application of Flax and Other Bast Plants Herrmann, A.S., Riedel, U. & Nickel, J. (Deutsche Forschungsanstalt fur Luft- und

Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR) Institut fur Strukturmechanik, Germany) – The Use of Renewable Materials in Structural Design.

Shehata, M.M., Mona, H.A.D. & El-Hariri, D.M. (Dental Materials Dept. Fac. Of Dentistry, Egypt & Field Crops Res. Dept, Egypt) – Compressive Strength, Solubility and Micro-Leakage of Flax Fibres Reinforced Zinc Oxide Eugenol Dental Cement Material.

Murphy, D.P.L., Behring, H. & Wieland, H. (Institute for Agricultural Building Research, Germany) – The Use of Flax and Hemp Materials for Insulating Buildings.

El Bassam, N. (Institute of Crop Science, Germany) – Energy from Bast Fibre Plant Species, Potential and Impact on Environment and Development.

Kozlowski, R., Mieleniak, B. & Przepiera, A. (Institute of Natural Fibres, Poland) – Particleboards and Insulating Board on Base Hemp Shives and Hemp Straw.

Session III The Role of the Bast Fiber Plants in Recultivation of Polluted Areas Kokurin, N.L. & Yagodin, B.A. (Laboratory of Trace Elements, Timiryazev

Agricultural Academy, Russia) – Elemental Composition of Flax and Its Wild Relatives as Affected by Genetic and Environmental Factors.

Wislicki, B., Zdrodowska, B. & Krzyzanowski, R. (Institute of Aviation, Poland) – Ester of Aliphatic Alcohols and Fatty Acids Present in Vegetable Oils Obtained from Plants Grown on Heavy-Metal Polluted Areas as Diesel Fuels and Lubricating Base Oils.

Grzebisz, W., Chudzinski, B., Diatta, J.B. & Barlog, P. (Dept. of Agricultural Chemistry, Agricultural University, Poland & Institute of Plant Protection, Poland) – Phytoremediation of Soils Contaminated by Copper Smelter Activity. Part I. Evaluation of Soils Contamination by Heavy Metals. Part II. Usefulness of Non-Consumable Crops.

Grabowska, L. & Baraniecki, P. (Institute of Natural Fibres, Poland) – Three Year Results on Utilization of Soil Polluted by Copper-Producing Industry.

Flax and Other Bast Plants Poster Session Session I Harvesting and Processing of Flax and Other Bast Plants Sedelink, N. (Institute of Natural Fibres, Poland) – A New Method of Cottonising

Flax and Its Use in the Production of Textiles. Sitnik, V. (Institute of Bast Crops UAAS, Ukraine) – Seedgrowing of Non-Drug

Hemp Varieties. Mateukchin, A.P., Mateukchina, G.N. & Sukhopalova, T.P. (Research Institute of

Flax (VNIL), Russia) – New Elements and Machines in Flax Growing.

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Bentini, M., Biavati, E., Cappelletto, P.L. & Pasini, P. (Dipartimento Economia Ingegneria Agraria, Universita di Bologna, Italy & Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato, Italy & Tecnagri, Italy) – Mechanical Harvest, Industrial Transformation and Kenaf Quality.

Session II Non-Textile Applications of Flax and Other Bast Plants Staud, J. & Bjelkova, M. (AGRITEC Research, Breeding and Services Ltd, Czech

Republic) The Application of the Linseed Stem for Energy and Technical Purposes.

Salabanova, A. & Tzvetkov, J. (Experimental Station for Potatoes and Flax, Bulgaria & Experimental Station, Bulgaria) – Shive Application in Vegetable Growing.

Guilluy, R. (Asselin – Groupe NSC, France & Thibeau – Groupe NSC, France) – Nonwoven Applications of Natural Fibres.

Assirelli, A., Bentini, M., Cappelletto, P.L. & Pasini, P. (Dipartimento Economia Ingegneria Agraria, Universita di Bologna, Italy & Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato, Italy & Tecnagri, Italy) – Fiber Valorization of Oilseed Flax.

Przweozna-Schmidt, K. (Institute of Natural Fibres, Poland) Flax and Hemp in the Three Dimensional Woven Structures.

El-Hariri, D.M. & Moawad, H.M. (NRC, Egypt & Tanta Flax and Oil Comp., Egypt) – Factors Affecting the Technological Properties of Flax Particleboard.

Behring, H. & Murphy, D.P.L. (Institute for Agricultural Building Research, Germany) – Are Flax Based Insulation Products Environmentally Friendly?

Wieland, H. & Murphy, D.P.L. (Insitute for Agricultural Building Research, Germany) – Durability of Flax Fibre Materials in Buildings.

Murphy, D.P.L., Georg, H. & Bockisch, F.J. (Institute for Agricultural Building Research, Germany) – Infrastructure for the Exploitation of Bast Fibre Crops in Industry.

Kurtyka, J. (POLOVAT, Poland) Biocomposites Based on Natural Waste Fibres. Session III The Role of the Bast Fibre Plants in Recultivation of Polluted Areas Uschapovsky, I.V. & Kokurin, N.L. (Institute of Flax, Russia) – The Evaluation of

Flax Genotypes Reaction on a High Heavy Metals Background as a First Stage of the Investigation on the Crops Recultivation Potential.

Krynski, K. & Radziszewska, D. (WODR, Poland) – Contaminated Lands in Katowice Voievodeship Potentially Needed to be Cropped with Flax or Other Bast Plant.

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Session IV Other Topics Smirous, P. & Pavelek, M. (AGRITEC Research, Breeding and Services Ltd, Czech

Republic) – The Perspectives of the Hemp Growing in the Czech Republic. Kurt, O. & Leith, M.H. (University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun & University of

Wales, United Kingdom) – The Effects of Plant Growth Regulators (Chlormequat & Ethephon) on Growth, Development, Seed Yield and Yield Components of Linseed.

Jawaid, A., Sharman, R.J. & New, J.K. (Biology Dept., Anglia Polytechnic University, United Kingdom) – A Photographic Study Showing the Effects of Ultrasound and Retting Upon Flax Stem Anatomy.