Hemp Technology an opportunity for Industry

Hemp technology is going to be vital in a high-tech, eco-friendly economy, the Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party says.

Bio-polymer made from hemp cellulose is an exciting emerging industry which could be a viable alternative to carbon-fibre.

Graphene super-capacitors are also being made from hemp fibres at a fraction of the cost of traditional processes.

ALCP Industry spokeswoman Sandra Mulqueen said New Zealand farms were ideally suited to growing hemp for production of a variety of high-value end-use technologies.

"Our shadow budget invests $50 million to help farmers transition to hemp, creating jobs in manufacturing and retail of products like bio-polymer and graphene," she said.

"Graphene is stronger than diamond, more conductive that copper and more flexible than rubber."

Dr David Mitlin of the Journal of Materials Science said "if you look at hemp fibre its structure makes nano-sheets with high surface area and that is very conducive to super capacitors".

Ms Mulqueen said hemp would also provide a seasonal alternative to wool, while hemp foliage and seedcake were ideal for stock feed.

ALCP policy would make it much easier for New Zealanders to obtain a hemp licence or get a job in the hemp industry.

ENDS

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