Since September 2022, FRD-CODEM and UMR FARE (INRAE-URCA) have established a joint partnership laboratory (LPA) called 4FM (FARE and FRD-CODEM common laboratory for Futures Fibres & Materials). Through this initiative, the partners – who have known one another for over 15 years – aim to develop a joint research programme and pool their material and human resources in order to address key issues relating to value creation within the fibre crop sector (hemp, flax, etc.).
The first actions of LPA 4FM are focused on the quality of fibre crops, particularly hemp. Indeed, the stage between straw cutting and removal from the field is crucial in the value chain. During this period, which can range from a few days to 8-10 weeks, hemp straw undergoes several physical and biological transformations, depending on the soil and climate conditions in the field. This transformation, known as “retting”, is mainly responsible for the variability in quality of the straw, the products (fibres) and the co-products (shives). Each application using hemp (paper, insulation, nonwovens, plastics, textiles, etc.) has strict specifications that must be met, and these refer to a degree of retting.
In this context, the 4FM LPA has developed an initial decision support tool (DST) to monitor the quality of retted hemp straw and fibres. Currently in testing, this DST aims to help hemp producers manage their harvest and optimize fibre quality, and to help manufacturers secure and standardize their supply of raw materials.
This DST can be developed in different area or hemp production value chain. FRD-CODEM, in conjunction with 4FM LPA, offers an personalized service incorporating support for plot retting monitoring, links with application markets, training in the method and its transfer.
Contacts
- Claire ISIERTE CAPONE – FRD-CODEM
Project Manager at the 4FM Partner Laboratory – claire.isierte-capone@f-r-d.fr - Bernard KUREK – INRAE FARE
Head of Research and Director of 4FM – bernard.kurek@inrae.fr - Arnaud DAY – FRD-CODEM
Scientific Director and Deputy Director of 4FM – arnaud.day@f-r-d.fr
