Kafus natural fiber composites are designed as an alternative to traditional composite materials such as fiberglass reinforced plastics. Marketed as Flexform mats and panels, Kafus bio-composites can be recovered, reused and recycled. The use of natural fiber composite panels reduces the molding time of 3-D parts, lower production emissions of toxic volatile organic compounds, and reduce vehicle weight. In January, Kafus signed an agreement with Ford Motor Company and Visteon Automotive Systems to develop mats and panel products made from a combination of kenaf and other natural fibers. Natural fiber composites offer weight savings, performance enhancements and remarkable recycling capabilities.
Industrial hemp is a strong natural fiber that can be used to make lightweight automobile parts.
Industrial hemp is is being blended with resins and other synthetic fibers to make light weight automotive parts. At the 1998 Detroit Auto Show, an Ontario company, Kenex, showed how the hemp it grows can be made into door panels and headliners, sound and thermal insulators, composite mouldings, interior panels, matting, floor coverings, and truck liners. Hemp is ecologically friendly, non-toxic, light weight for greater fuel efficiency, and offers a high tensile strength. It is biodegradable, impact resistant while meeting safety and quality standards, and is low abrasion, making it worker and equipment friendly. Recycling is a big part of the green trend in automotive materials, but even conventional cars are largely recycled these days.