Patent ID: 11524921

Abstract:
Disclosed is a new composite material comprising nanocellulose and hemp or a hemp-derived component, such as pure hemp, hemp bast fibers, hemp inner fibers, hemp shives, hemp leaves, hemp seeds, or ground hemp. The nanocellulose may be hydrophobic or hydrophilic, and may include cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibrils, cellulose microfibrils, or a combination thereof. This invention provides construction blocks or panels; engineered parts; fire-resistant objects; coatings; containers; textile compositions; and fabric materials, for example. The composite material may also include one or more additives to modify mechanical, thermal, chemical, and/or electrical properties. The addition of nanocellulose can improve the mechanical properties of hemp-containing concrete mixtures to improve compressive strength for construction purposes.