Herbicide-induced alterations in hemp fiber: A comparative analysis of strength and morphology
Cannabis sativa (Hemp) is renowned for its diverse applications across multiple industries. This versatile plant is utilized in food production, paper manufacturing, pharmaceutical development, cosmetic formulations, biofuel generation, and most notably, in the textile sector. The hemp fiber’s mecha...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
SAGE Publishing
2025-02-01
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| Series: | Journal of Engineered Fibers and Fabrics |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1177/15589250251319321 |
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| Summary: | Cannabis sativa (Hemp) is renowned for its diverse applications across multiple industries. This versatile plant is utilized in food production, paper manufacturing, pharmaceutical development, cosmetic formulations, biofuel generation, and most notably, in the textile sector. The hemp fiber’s mechanical performance, low cost, and environmental sustainability make it a promising alternative to conventional fiber but the plant is highly susceptible to several agronomic and environmental factors, particularly herbicides. Our research investigates the impact of glyphosate and metribuzin herbicides on Cannabis sativa fiber quantity and quality. Cellulose and hemicellulose content, mechanical properties, and morphological features of fiber from treated plants were analyzed. Herbicide treatments significantly affected fiber composition and properties. Treatment with low-concentration glyphosate resulted in a reduction of both cellulose and hemicellulose content, whereas low-concentration metribuzin induced a slight increase in cellulose levels. Exposure to high concentrations of either herbicide led to a significant decrease in both cellulose and hemicellulose components. Mechanical tests and X-Ray Diffraction revealed that low-concentration glyphosate weakened fiber’s tensile strength, whereas low-concentration metribuzin enhanced it. However, high concentrations of both herbicides decreased tensile strength. Bast fiber content initially increased with low herbicide concentrations but declined at higher levels. Scanning electron microscopy revealed progressive structural damage to fiber with increasing herbicide concentrations. Glyphosate caused surface disruption, while metribuzin induced more severe degradation, including surface erosion and bubbling at high concentrations. These findings highlight the complex effects of glyphosate and metribuzin on Cannabis sativa fiber properties, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of herbicide use in hemp cultivation for textile production. |
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| ISSN: | 1558-9250 |