Characterization of Indian hemp (Canabinus sativa L.) fibre and study for potentiality in textile application

The structure and physico-mechanical properties of Canabinus sativa L. fibre from a specific agro-climatic region of India were thoroughly studied. The fine structure of the fibre was examined by FTIR, TGA, XRD, component analysis, and SEM. SEM shows heterogeneous morphology with prominent longitudinal ridges having cracks and surface impurities. XRD shows a moderate degree of crystallinity (49%) but sharp peaks indicating the presence of an appreciable amount of cellulose matter. FTIR reveals the presence of large quantities of hydroxyl and aldehyde along with phenolic groups. The fine structure of European hemp fibre was compared with the Indian hemp fibres. Component and thermal analyses indicate the presence of hemicellulose and cellulose as major constituents along with lignin. The breaker carded fibre shows that hemp is longer, finer, lighter, stronger, more extensible, more flexible, and has lower crystalline fibre than jute. Its colour value is also better than that of jute. Hemp yarn is better than jute yarn, especially in bulk, flexibility, elongation, and modulus. Blended yarn is better in strength and work of rupture but inferior in hairiness. Studies show that hemp fabric has better properties than jute fabric, especially in terms of flexibility, bulk, and strength. A jute processing system may be a very good option for hemp fibre and can be used to make jute blended yarn and 100% hemp yarn for apparel and furnishing grade fabric with better functional properties.