Kenaf today, hemp tomorrow?
As part of its commitment to greener production, reports USA Today, Ford (NYSE:F) says it’s using a fibrous plant called kenaf to replace oil-based materials inside the doors of the all-new Ford Escape. Use of kenaf is anticipated to offset 300,000 pounds of oil-based resin per year in North America.
“Kenaf and the other renewable materials in the Escape have made the vehicle more environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient,” said Laura Sinclair, a materials engineer for Escape.
Kenaf grows quickly, rising to heights of 12 to 14 feet in as little as four to five months.
The kenaf is combined with polypropylene in a 50-50 mixture. International Automotive Components manufactures the door bolsters in Greencastle, Ind.
More at USA Today.
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