World Production of Bast Fibrous Plants and Their Diversified Uses

摘要

Global trends towards sustainable development have brought to light the natural, renewable, and biodegradable raw materials. Science and technology continue in extending the use of bast fibers in textile and other industries. Recent achievements and new applications of green fibers and associated products of bast fibrous plants support the following conclusions: 1. Fast growing population, and eco- and health awareness create large space for future expansion of natural cellulosic fibers other than cotton. 2. Present achievements in breeding/production/processing extend the use of bast fibers in textiles. To make the way for processing fibers into textile product, it was necessary to develop: 1. New, refined bast fiber types, adapted to modern spinning systems 2. New, softer, finer 100% bast or bast blended yarns, especially knitting yarns 3. New crease resistant finishing treatments 4. New products, which could meet the needs of demanding apparel sector. Examples are: knitted linen/hemp/ramie dresses, spot wear, underwear, and socks, etc. 5. All the textile goods made on the basis of green fibers have the property of high comfort, healthy, and eco-friendly, which are quality criteria mostly demanded in the years to come. They can be labeled as "NATURAL" which is the key to market success. 6. Green fibers/bast fibrous plants are used, thanks to research and development, in growing amounts for nonwood pulps, which can help to stop forests depletion, flood of nonbiodegradable wastes, and environmental degradation. Non-wood pulp development can also raise the living standards of rural areas in many parts of the globe. 7. Green fibers/bast fibrous plants will also be used in growing amounts in a wide spectrum of biocomposites materials. Being lignocellulosic, they can be combined with man-made or natural polymers to provide a wide range of useful composites in textiles (including geotextiles and non-woven), particle and other boards, chemical and thermosetting polymer containing goods, filters, transportation, building industry, and agriculture. In the future all biocomposites have to be recyclable and fully biodegradable. 8. Green fibrous plants provide valuable by-products like seeds, waxes, fragrances, and pigments. These by-products may be used for food, fodder, pharmaceutics, cosmetics, and body-care items. Especially important are linseed/hemp seed. They contain substances indispensable for our brain and nervous system function as well as antisclerotoc/anticarcinogenic lignans and unsaturated fatty acids. The Institute of Natural Fibers has developed valuable food additives on linseed/hemp seed basis, which are in high demand together with cosmetics/ body-care products. This is a good example of how to provide jobs and raise the living standards, and promote agriculture-rooted industries. In developed countries, fibrous plants (like hemp and flax) cultivation can extract heavy metals from polluted soils. Using this approach, even heavily polluted areas can be recultivated.