Insulation: Hemp Wool

WHAT IS IT?

Hemp, an industrial variety of the cannabis plant family, is farmed and harvested in the UK. It is one of the fastest growing crops, sequestering carbon as it grows. Its extracts are used to create many products, including oils, fabrics, insulation, paper, bioplastics and others.¹ Wooly fibres from the stems of the plant are extracted to create insulation batts, called Hemp Wool.

Hemp Wool vs Hempcrete

Hemp Wool acts as a one-to-one replacement for conventional insulation products, while Hempcrete is a building system.

Click to see Hempcrete

MATERIAL LIFE CYCLE

Cross section of Hemp Stalk - Source

KEY INFORMATION: ²

Made in the UK
Contains British hemp
Width – 370mm / 570mm
Thickness – 50mm, 70mm, 100mm
Thermal conductivity – 0.040 W/mK
Sound absorption – NRC 0.90 @ 100mm
Highly breathable and hygroscopic, controlling indoor humidity by absorbing condensation.
Can be recycled, reused and composted
Easy and quick installation process, requires no fastening/stapling. Is safe to handle without protective equipment.
Fire resistant – treated hemp wool will char but will not spread the fire and burn.³
It is robust and firm, ensuring the insulation does not slouch over time.³
Is sensitive to moisture, and should not be used in wet climates or damp areas like basements. If required, a vapour barrier can help with this.⁴

Challenges with using Hemp Wool

Source 1 Source 2

Sample provided by Thermafleece

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