Hemp bioplastic is mostly made from the cellulose found in the bast fibre of hemp plants. It is produced by extracting the cellulose and converting it into a polymer that can be moulded into various shapes and forms. This is done with a bioplastic resin derived from another renewable source, such as corn starch or sugar cane. Interestingly, even the lowest-grade (waste-grade) hemp biomass is effective in plastic production.

The exact process of making hemp bioplastics varies by manufacturer and intended use of the final product. However, it’s simple enough to do on your own, according to hemp bioplastic manufacturer EuroPlas, who provide a step-by-step DIY guide. All you need are hemp fibres, hemp oil, a plasticiser, heat source, mixing tools and a mould. Hemp bioplastic can be used to make automotive parts, bags, boats, bottles, containers, electronics, films, furniture, packaging, tiles, toys and much, much more.

Hemp bioplastic has exceptional thermal stability, is fire-resistant and does not allow UV radiation to pass through. It is lighter, more than three times stronger and five times stiffer than the most common type of plastic, polypropylene. The key ingredient for making plastic (traditional and bio) is cellulose and hemp contains up to an average of 70% cellulose.

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