For centuries, humans have been using hemp either for its euphoric or medicinal effects, but also for its value for the textile industry.
The global consciousness around the plant has brought to light different industrial applications. Some of them are being made the most of by the automotive industry.
From bioplastics, lubricants, hybrid cars and current generators, hemp came to stay.
The first-time hemp-based plastics were used in the automotive industry was in 1941 by Henry Ford’s Hemp Car. On that occasion, 70% of the bodywork was made from these fibers of wheat straw cellulose, hemp, sisal and 30% resins.
Resistance increased by 10%.
This example has inspired important companies such as BMW. One of its electric cars the i3 launched in 2013 reports being 800 pounds lighter than its classic models. Hemp and carbon fibers were used in this model.
Other companies have followed this model. Actors such as Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche and Toyota have found strong resistance when using this type of materials. For example, the new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 developed by Dutch producers Hempflax stands out for its hemp compounds.
How is hemp plastic made?
The answer is from his cellulose. Cellulose is one of the most present organic polymers on the planet and the truth for which hemp is a great industrial material. Its cellulose composition is around 60-70%.
In contrast, the wood has about 40% and cotton with a percentage of 90%.
Once the cellulose has been extracted from the hemp plant, new types of plastic can be manufactured with less waste. Such cellulose can be mixed with other pre-existing materials.
Other important products are those that are developed from the oil. Oil can help in the cosmetic and medical industry, as well as lubricants in the automotive industry.
Imágenes del Porshe
in Costa Rica. 
