Title:
A New Prototype for Hemp Scutching at Farm Level
Author(s):
Assirelli, A., Fischetti, E., Pondini, L., Carnevale, M., Santangelo, E., Gallucci, F.
Document(s):
Paper
Poster
Abstract:
The recent revival of the European and Italian hemp value chain has encouraged the development of new processing technologies, although limited cultivation areas and high logistical costs hinder the economic viability of large-scale industrial facilities. Consequently, interest is increasing in small-scale decortication systems suitable for specialized farms and aligned with circular economy principles. This study evaluates a farm-scale scutching prototype, assessing fibre separation efficiency under different stem moisture contents and processing intensities. Fresh (11.7% moisture) and air-dried (6.2%) stems were processed using 4 and 7 passes. Results show that air-dried stems produced cleaner fibres, with hurd contamination reduced from 10% to 7%, compared to 67% and 38% in fresh stems. Increasing the number of passes improved fibre purity in all treatments, with stronger effects in fresh material. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated higher thermal stability for fibres from dried stems, with cellulose degradation occurring at higher temperatures (˜300–310 °C vs. ˜290–295 °C) and higher residual mass due to slower lignin decomposition. Overall, both moisture content and processing intensity significantly influence fibre quality, confirming the effectiveness of the prototype for decentralized farm-scale fibre processing and the production of cleaner, thermally stable hemp fibres.
Keywords:
hemp, pretreatment, composition, processing industry, mechanization, fibre
Topic:
Sustainable Resources for Decarbonising the Economy
Subtopic:
Biomass resources and potentials
Event:
34th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
1BV.4.16
Pages:
74 - 77
ISBN:
978-88-89407-27-1
Paper DOI:
10.5071/34thEUBCE2026-1BV.4.16
Price:
FREE
