Principal investigator: Ronald Kander
University: Thomas Jefferson University
Industry partners: Cedar Meadow Farm and I-Hemp Katalyst
There continues to be a lack of American-grown and processed natural fiber available to downstream textile product manufacturers. Over several years, Pennsylvania farmers have learned harvesting techniques and acquired plant genetics that befit the region. However, a bottleneck occurs at the point in the supply chain where natural fiber is processed and graded. It is crucial for industry to focus on the quality control of their output, the fibers. Farmers and processors are seeking feedback on their crops and how that translates to market price. Several key attributes used to classify natural fiber, including tensile strength, elasticity, luster, color, and fineness, will be evaluated at Jefferson. Students will deliver a written procedure for sample preparation and testing of bast fiber, report the mechanical and physical properties of fibers grown in 2025, and make recommendations for processing fiber crop to improve product quality.