Preparation, Extraction, and Processing of Water-Retted Cannabis Sativa L. Fibers

Abstract

Cellulose fibers come from fast-growing renewable crops which characteristically are sustainable making them a desirable option for textile structures. Commercial medical Cannabis cultivation is a fast-growing market. Marijuana stems, which are often discarded or burnt, due to the absence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) provide an opportunity for the manufacturing of fibers. In this manuscript, the physical, chemical, morphological, and mechanical properties of Cannabis sativa L. stems, coming from medicinal marijuana grown crops, were analyzed to assess their viability for textile use. The content of hemicellulose, pectin, lignin, and cellulose in the fibers was assessed, and we found that the mechanical properties of these fibers are comparable to those of similar natural fibers such as coconut, hemp, sisal, and jute. The FTIR spectra showed all characteristic peaks present in most cellulosic substrates. We demonstrated that cellulosic fibers can be obtained via water-retting of marijuana plants hence opening an avenue for the utilization of agricultural waste in a myriad of potential applications such as water filtration, packaging, and rheological modifiers.Abbreviation: Terms: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol); CBD (cannabidiol); PVC (polyvinyl chlorides); SEM (scanning electron microscopy); FTIR (Fourier transform infrared).