Kenaf: Opportunities for an Ancient Fiber Crop

Kenaf: Opportunities for an Ancient Fiber Crop

Hibiscus cannabinus (kenaf) is an annual fiber crop grown in warm seasons and known for its remarkable productivity; it has been cultivated worldwide for thousands of years as a fiber source. While every part of the plant can be utilized for some purpose, its primary significance lies in the diverse...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Agronomy (Basel) Vol. 14; no. 7; p. 1542
Main Authors: Austin, Conner C., Mondell, Colleen N., Clark, David G., Wilkie, Ann C.
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: Basel MDPI AG 01-07-2024
Subjects:
absorbent
Agricultural production
bast fiber
biochar
biocomposites
Biomass energy
Biomass energy production
Cellulose
Cellulose fibers
Composite materials
Cordage
Cost control
Costs (Law)
Crop production
Crops
fiber crops
Fibers
Hibiscus cannabinus
Industrial applications
Kenaf
Lignin
Livestock
Livestock feed
Livestock feeds
Manufacturing
Oils & fats
Textile industry
China
United States > US
Russia
India
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Summary:Hibiscus cannabinus (kenaf) is an annual fiber crop grown in warm seasons and known for its remarkable productivity; it has been cultivated worldwide for thousands of years as a fiber source. While every part of the plant can be utilized for some purpose, its primary significance lies in the diverse applications of its cellulosic fiber. Kenaf features a blend of long bast and short core fibers, rendering it suitable for various industrial uses. Initially utilized for cordage and livestock feed, kenaf’s applications have expanded over the last century to encompass its utilization as paper pulp, biocomposites, textiles, biomass energy, seed oil, filtration aids, industrial absorbents, and even as a component of potting medium or as a potential source of medicine. Although traditionally a niche crop, the discovery of its diverse applications positions kenaf for rapid expansion in production in the upcoming decades. This article aims to explore the manifold applications of kenaf, highlighting those with the greatest future potential and discussing those that hold promise for commercial-level application with additional research.
ISSN:2073-4395
2073-4395
DOI:10.3390/agronomy14071542