The Environmental Benefits of Hemp: Hemp Could Help
Save Our Planet
Hemp research has been conducted by Dr. David Mitlin, who works at the University of Alberta
in Canada. He believes that the project could turn hemp fibers into a graphene alternative for a
fraction of the cost. Since graphene can cost of fortune to produce, hemp fiber could prove to be
extremely useful. The fact is that there are plenty of electronic devices that all have a battery
inside them. The chances are that you have noticed that your smartphone died despite you having
charged it just a few hours earlier. The same goes for the electric car that you might have driven
for just a few miles before it became utterly drained.
To better understand the capability of hemp fibers, it is important to learn how a basic capacitor
works. It stores energy electro-statistically in electric fields. The energy is stored between
electrical conductors or plates, either aluminum foils or thin films of metal. A super-capacitor is
a capacitor that works on steroids. It mostly uses graphene as it is a material that is known for its
efficiency when it comes to conducting electricity and heat with amazing ability. Graphene is a
single atomic layer of carbon sheets. As one peels the layer of graphite, they get graphene. It has
an extensive surface area that provides superb capacity for storing charges and more space to
store.
According to the American Chemical Society, super-capacitors are the ultimate energy storage
device that provides tremendous potential for transforming how electronics can be powered.
They are not the same as the rechargeable batteries available today, which drain energy within
just a few hours. It takes seconds for super-capacitors to charge and discharge. However, they
cannot store as much energy as batteries due to energy density.
Super-capacitors can offer greater energy density by designing better electrodes. But, hemp
provides a better option as it handles electrodes much more easily. It is quite a dirty business to
get graphite which is required for making graphene. It has to be mined. Then, it must be
chemically processed, which means that layers of graphite have to be peeled away using a strong
acid such as nitric acid or sulfuric. It only results in the structure getting damaged and losing its
electrical conductivity. It further poses a threat to the environment. Hemp offers a great
alternative as it can be easily produced for a fraction of the cost.
Moreover, graphite mining tends to be pollution-laden and energy-hungry. Tesla Model S cars
use graphite in their batteries. The same goes for Toyota plug-in Prius, which offers zero
emissions. However, they pollute the water and air in China.
Conclusion
Hemp fibers can be used for creating batteries that do not harm the environment. Hence, it makes
sense to invest in hemp production to save the planet. As more research is conducted, there will
be a switch to hemp-based batteries. It will help combat climate change.