Composite Materials

The use of cellulose materials in these products has long been the standard and the use of residual fibers and by products has held a place in these processes in many areas of the world. Flax "shive", for example, has historically been used in the production of building materials in Egypt.

Composite panel production based on the use of flax fiber and shive, kenaf, true hemp and regionally available crop residues is being undertaken in a number of countries.

Extensive research is now underway to determine the viability of natural fiber use (particularly the bast fibers) for high performance structural composites.

The commercial production of products ranging from MDF to structural members is an objective for the 21st century that Danforth is diligently pursuing in conjunction with research facilities and manufacturers.