This chapter explains the hemp decorticating operation; the different techniques for fibre preparation; and the treatment of hemp hurds, powder and seed. It then looks at the investment and operating costs of hemp processing. This chapter demonstrates that the refining of industrial hemp into useable products is both difficult and costly.

This chapter provides an original account of the diverse subject of the agronomics and cultivation of hemp. It describes hemp cultivation in the most important hemp producing area of Europe since the rebirth of this industry in France in the 1960s. Next, the machinery, and in particular the harvesting procedure, is presented. Then follows a contribution from Australia, which only started producing hemp again in 2001. This chapter also presents the harvesting process developed by the Chanvriers de l'Est in France in 2005.

This chapter highlights the different industrial applications of hemp, including in the automotive industry and as insulation materials. It then examines recent developments in supply and prices of natural fibres and the demand growth potential of European hemp.

This chapter provides an account of the work conducted on hemp in France between 1970 and the present day. It addresses the following questions: (i) Which research areas have received attention?, (ii) What significant results have been obtained in this time?, (iii) What can we consider to be the current state of our understanding?, (iv) What are the latest research issues and where are they leading? The hemp growth stages and absorption of organic elements and minerals are described. The effects of crop cultivation factors (including varieties; sowing date and density; N, S, Mg and K application; and harvesting date), soil type and crop protection on the morphology and biochemistry of fibres, yield and fibre processing are discussed.

This chapter discusses new perspectives and possibilities in the sustainable production and utilization of hemp. Results of a study on the environmental impact of hemp cultivation are also presented.