Love for Life

KENEX LTD - Hemp Producer - Processor - Distributor
24907 Winter Line Road
RR #8, Chatham
ONTARIO, CANADA N7M 5J8

Tel: (519) 351-9922
Fax: (519) 351-6122

ABOUT KENEX

Kenex initiated an industrial hemp research program in 1995 in cooperation with Ridgetown College/University of Guelph. Health Canada granted a research license to proceed with the program. The scope of the project was expanded significantly in 1996 making Kenex Ltd. program the largest hemp research undertaking in Canada

1997 marked the beginning of the legalization of commercial hemp production in Canada with the passing of Bill C-8 in 1998. In response, Kenex expanded their acreage of hemp as well as purchased land, building, and specialized equipment to start a processing facility.

The first commercial production and processing of industrial hemp in Canada took place in 1998, with Kenex engaging a leadership role in the industrial hemp industry.

Today, Kenex is working with private firms to develop quality hemp based products for a wide array of modern uses including: body care, cosmetics, foodstuff, building materials, automobile interior parts, pulp & paper, animal bedding and feed.

Kenex in The Market Place

Kenex takes pride in noting that no chemical treatments are being used in the production and processing of our products. Kenex is committed to the development of Quality G.M.O. free hemp products through our varietal research and development program. We also carry on an extensive T.H.C. and quality testing program. These tests assure quality and product certification. The objective at Kenex is to be your source for quality hemp products purchased in bulk quantities.

Link to this page: http://www.kenex.com/english/Default.htm

-----------------------------

Products

Hempgrain Derivatives : http://www.kenex.com/english/product3.htm
Refined Hemp Oil
Virgin Emerald Oil
Hemp Nut
Hemp Meal

Whole Hempgrain : http://www.kenex.com/english/product2.htm
Sterilized Grain
Toasted Grain
Roasted Grain

Fibre & Core : http://www.kenex.com/english/product4.htm
HempBed
Fibre
Hurds (core)

Certified Seed : http://www.kenex.com/english/product7.htm
Anka
Deni
Carmen

Link to this page: http://www.kenex.com/english/Default.htm

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to the HempBed™ Web Site

HempBed™ is produced from the soft highly absorbent woody core of the hemp plant. The core is separated, milled to size and the dust is extracted.

HempBed™ is an All Natural Product. No herbicides or pesticides are used in the growing or production of HempBed™.

HempBed™ absorbs liquid and ammonia quickly, reducing the size of the wet area. HempBed™ is proven to be much more absorbent than straw or wood chips. This will reduce the amount of bedding required for replacement as well as the cost for removal and disposal. HempBed™ will provide you with Easy Maintenance when compared to traditional bedding

High Absorbency ~ Drier Bedding ~ Less Work

Link to this page: http://www.kenex.com/hempbed/Default.htm

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HempBed™ Product Information

HempBed™ provides a Healthy Environment for your horses. By absorbing ammonia, HempBed™ reduces the harmful effects on a horses respiratory system. It also reduces stable odour and provides a safe, warm comfortable environment for your horse.

HempBed™ decomposes quickly resulting in a smaller manure pile and producing a good Quality Compost.

Controlled production to produce a consistent all natural premium product

Recent tests have concluded that a combination of dust and ammonia are major contributors to respiratory diseases.

HempBed™ by Kenex offers a solution using state of the art dust separation for the best environment results for your horses health and comfort.

Compressed bales of HempBed™ are conveniently packed in recyclable poly bags for storage inside or outdoors.

Start your foal out the clean, safe, healthy way using HempBed™.

Link to this page: http://www.kenex.com/hempbed/Default.htm

-----------------------------------------------

Testimonials See: http://www.kenex.com/hempbed/Default.htm

-----------------------------------------------

Certifications & licences

Schedule 1 - Licence To cultivate Industrial Hemp
Schedule 2 - Licence To Import Industrial Hemp
Schedule 3 - Licence To Export Industrial Hemp
Schedule 4 - Licence To Process Industrial Hemp
Schedule 5 - Site Licence To Sell Or Provide Industrial Hemp
Schedule 7 - Industrial Hemp Plant Breeder Licence
Schedule 9 - Authorization To Possess Industrial Hemp
Schedule 10 - Licence To Produce Industrial Hemp Derivatives And Products

Link to this page: http://www.kenex.com/english/Default.htm

----------------------------------------------

Get The Scoop On Hemp

Hempseed

Hempseed is high in protein containing about 30% oil - best known for its good balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 EFA's as well as GLA. Hempseed is a nutritious source of vitamins and minerals including Beta Carotene, vitamins A, C and E. Hempseeds do not have any cholesterol. Hempseed was a staple food of the ancients, centuries ago. It has been reported that Buda himself ate the delicious hempseed. Hempseeds may be toasted and flavoured with salt, herbs or spices for a nutritious snack.

EFA's- Essential Fatty Acids

About 20 fatty acids are used by the human body to maintain normal function. Your body can synthesize all but two, Omega-3 and Omega-6, which are essential for good health and must be obtained in proper balance from foods or supplements.

"The best balance of which is hemp oil with three times as much W6 (Omega-6) as W3 (Omega-3). There is a wide gap in which there are no natural oils"
- Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill - Udo Erasmus.

How are you getting your EFA's

Hempseeds and hemp nuts are delicious foods or snacks and a good source for EFA's eliminating the need for other nutritional supplements.

Hemp oil, flax oil, evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black current oil all contain EFA's which can be taken as a supplement. Evening primrose, borage and black current are good sources of GLA but are incomplete in Omega-3 and Omega-6. Flax has a 2 to 1 ration of Omega-3 to Omega-6 but no GLA.

"Hempseed oil can be used over the long term to maintain a healthy EFA balance without leading to either EFA deficiency or imbalance. This is because it contains W6 and W3 - EFA's in a better long-term balance: 3 to 1. in addition, it contains almost 2% GLA, the W6 derivative that is a key active ingredient in evening primrose and borage oils."
- Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill - Udo Erasmus

"Our Smartest move would be to improve diets and life style, but supplementation with GLA is better than doing nothing"
- Fats that Heal, Fats that Kill - Udo Erasmus

All Natural Product

No herbicides or pesticides are used in the growing or production of hempseed.

Hemp Nuts

Modern technology has made it possible to remove the outer shell (hull) of the hempseed. This dehulling produces the hemp nuts (the meat of the hempseed) with no pesky hulls that may cling between your teeth. The low temperature process does not alter the nutritional value of the hemp nuts. These nuts are particularly nice for those who wear dentures or don't like the crunchy toasted whole hempseed.

How to Use Hulled Seeds

Straight from the container

Sprinkle plain or lightly toasted on salads, pasta, cereals, fruit, for baking bread, pastry

Finish baking chicken or fish with coating of plain hemp nuts

Grind them into butter - sandwiches, hummus, tahini, salad dressing, dips, milk shake flavouring

Link to this page: http://www.kenex.com/english/Default.htm

--------------------------------------------------------

Cropping Guide

INDUSTRIAL HEMP

A CROPPING GUIDE FOR FARMERS
Growing Industrial Hemp for the 21st Century.
INDUSTRIAL HEMP PRODUCTION

by
Peter Dragla M. Sc.
Ridgetown College, University of Guelph
Kenex Research Associate

PLANT DESCRIPTION: Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is an annual, herbaceous plant with a slender stem, ranging in height from 4 to 15 feet and a diameter from ¼" to ¾". The innermost layer is the pith, surrounded by woody material known as hurds. Outside of this layer is the growing tissue which develops into hurds on the inside and into the bast fibres on the outside. The stem is more or less branched, depending on the crop density. When sown thickly the stems do not branch. The leaves are of a palmate type and each leaf has 7 to 11 leaflets, with serrated edges. The strong tap-root penetrates deep into the soil. However, if the soil conditions are unfavorable, the main root remains short, while lateral roots become more developed.

SOILS: Industrial hemp can be grown on a wide variety of soil types. Hemp prefers a sufficiently deep, well-aerated soil with a pH of 6 or greater, along with good moisture and nutrient holding capacity. Poorly drained soils, however, are not recommended as excess surface water after heavy rains can result in damage to the hemp crop. Hemp is extremely sensitive to flooding and soil compaction.

SOIL PREPARATION: A fine, firm seedbed is required for fast, uniform germination of hemp seed. Conventional seedbed preparation and drilling are probably ideal. The seedlings will not emerge uniformly if the seed is placed at a depth greater than 2 inches. "No-till systems" can also be used with good results, but may be more vulnerable to erratic emergence depending on the growing season.

NUTRITION: To achieve an optimum hemp yield, twice as much nutrient must be available to the crop as will finally be removed from the soil at harvest. A hemp field produces a very large bulk of plant material in a short vegetative period. The nitrogen uptake is most intensive the first 6 to 8 weeks, while potassium and in particular phosphorous are needed more during flowering and seed formation. Industrial hemp requires 80 to 100 lbs/ac (90 to 112 kg/ha) nitrogen, 35 to 50 lbs/ac (39 to 56 kg/ha) phosphate and 52 to 70 lbs/ac (60 to 80 kg/ha) potash.

GROWING CONDITIONS: Hemp prefers a mild climate, humid atmosphere, and a rainfall of at least 25-30 inches per year. Good soil moisture is required for seed germination and until the young plants are well-established.

WEED CONTROL: Industrial hemp is an extremely efficient weed suppressor. No chemicals are needed for growing this crop. Industrial hemp is a low maintenance crop. There are no registered chemicals for weed control in hemp. A normal stand of 200 to 300 plants per square meter shades out the weeds, leaving the fields weed-free at harvest.

TIME OF SEEDING: The best time to seed hemp should be dictated by the weather and soil conditions, rather than the date on the calendar. Hemp can be seeded as early as two weeks prior to corn provided that soil conditions are optimum. However, seeding should not begin until soil temperatures have reached a minimum of 42 - 46 °F (6 - 8°C). Hemp seed germinates within 24 to 48 hours, and emerges in 5 to 7 days with good moisture and warm temperature. Hemp grown for fibre should be seeded as early as possible while hemp for grain should be seeded later to minimize the height of the stalk.

PLANT POPULATION: High yields of high quality fibre can be achieved with proper plant density. Seeding rates of 250 to 400 viable seeds per square meter (50 - 60 lbs/acre) are probably ideal, depending on soil type, soil fertility and cultivars. The seed or grain production will require lower seeding rates in the 35 to 45 lbs/acre range. Crops grown with 15 to 20 lbs/acre of seed may be at risk with regards to weed infestation.

BREEDING CHARACTERISTICS: Generally, hemp is a dioecious plant. However, there are three classifications of varieties:

Monoecious varieties - when male and female flowers develop on the same plant;

Dioecious varieties - with distinct male and female plants;

Female predominant varieties, obtained by pollinating dioecious females with monoecious pollen.

CULTIVAR TYPES: There are two types of industrial hemp based on their use:

Fibre cultivars - with long stalks and little branching,

Seed cultivars - with shorter stalks, larger seed heads and may have numerous branches (seed contains 30 - 35% oil).

Both types have low THC content, of less than 0.3%.

SEED SUPPLY: Kenex Ltd is positioning itself to become a major hemp seed distributor in North America. The varieties available for cultivation will be restricted to the approved list provided by the regulatory authorities. At the onset, Kenex will continue to evaluate European cultivars that are best suited to the North American market.

ROTATION: Hemp can be grown on the same land for several years in succession but rotation with other crops is desirable. Hemp responds well to most preceding crops. It is also possible that introduction of hemp in a crop rotation might improve the soil health. Our observation in 1996 showed that hemp may significantly reduce the population of soybean cyst nematodes. We need at least 3 years of evaluations for this data to be conclusive.

HARVEST: Harvesting of hemp for high quality fibre occurs as soon as the last pollen is shed. Harvesting for seed occurs 4 to 6 weeks later, when 60% of the seed has ripened. Fiber hemp is normally ready to harvest in 70 to 90 days after seeding. The end use of the product may have a significantly impact on the harvesting method. Kenex is developing a harvesting system that will be compatible with the new processing technology. For fibre production the crop will be cut, dew retted in the field, baled and stored or processed.

RETTING: The best fibres are obtained by retting - a microbial decay of pectin, the substance that glues the fibre to the woody core of hemp stem together. Retting is carried out in the field and depending on the weather it takes 14 to 21 days to be completed. During retting, the stems need to be turned one or two times in order to allow for even retting, since the stems close to the ground will remain green while the top ones are retted and turn brown. Retting is complete when the fibres turn golden or grayish colour and separate easily from wood in finer fibres.

YIELD: Based on yield data from 1995, 1996 and 1997 yield expectations are between 3 to 4 tons of baled hemp stalks per acre on well drained loamy soils in South Western Ontario.

STORAGE: For storage, the moisture content of hemp stalks should not exceed 15%. The bales can be stored for a long time in dry places which could include storage sheds, barns or any other covered storage.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

HEMPLINE

HEMPLINE - supplier of renewable fibre technology

Hempline Inc. now operating as Stemergy: Renewable Fibre Technologies

Hempline Inc., the pioneer of the Canadian industrial hemp fibre industry and a leader in the development of renewable fibres, will begin operating under the name Stemergy: Renewable Fibre Technologies. The new name reflects the Company's shift into additional fibres such as flax and the development of an integrated value added chain that extends from agronomics through to novel composite products. The name change also signals a new day for the Company which has operated in Southern Ontario since 1994, as it looks towards several exciting new opportunities on the horizon.

Welcome

Founded in 1994, Hempline (now operating as Stemergy) is North America's leading producer of hemp fibers suitable for a wide range of applications. At our facility near Delaware, Ontario we extract and refine the two main hemp fibers from our locally grown hemp stalks. Our hemp fiber products are highly versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications. The primary hemp fiber from the outer portion of the hemp stalk is an ideal reinforcement in composites. The core hemp fiber from the inside of the stalk makes an excellent material for horse bedding, garden mulch or as a filler in composites. We welcome new inquiries for the use of our hemp fiber products and aim to provide you with a solution to your natural fibre needs.

Demand for renewable bio-fibers such as hemp and flax are quickly accelerating

About Hempline
Hempline (now operating as Stemergy) was founded in 1994, and has since become a leader in the hemp fibre industry in North America. From our current facility, established in 1998 and located in the heart of the agricultural and manufacturing region of South Western Ontario, we supply our hemp fibres to an expanding number of applications. Hempline has seen the demand for our hemp fibres products steadily grow over the years, in part due to our focus on excellent product quality, pricing and service, but also due to the rising cost of other materials such as oil based synthetics, fibre glass, steel and wood. In order to keep up with the popularity of our products we are currently working on an expansion of our processing operation. Your interest in our company and products is appreciated and we look forward to hearing from you about your natural fibre needs.

Our Products and Services
Hempline (now operating as Stemergy) offers primary hemp fibre and core hemp fibre in a wide range of sizes and package formats. We can arrange shipment of our hemp fibre throughout North America or the world. We specialize in the supplying hemp fibre used as fillers and reinforcement to the composite industry. We can custom design a hemp fibre format to suit your application, and with more than 10 years of experience in the natural fibre industry we can offer you superior technical support and service. We welcome new inquires for the use of our hemp fibre products and can provide samples, pricing and technical information as required. If for some reason we do not have a hemp fibre product that suits your needs we can assist you in finding the correct natural fibre that will.

How did we Get Here?
Awarded the first hemp research licences from the Canadian federal government in 1994, Hempline planted, harvested and processed the first crop of hemp fibre to be grown in North America since the 1950s. This first historic crop formed the starting point for Hempline's research and development program to: develop new growing and harvesting technique's; establish hemp fibre grading standards; implement modern hemp fibre processing technology; and create new market opportunities for hemp fibre in a variety of product categories.

During this time period Hempline (now operating as Stemergy) provided a leadership role in legislative changes to hemp the regulation of hemp production in Canada. This effort included testimony to a Canadian Senate Committee in April 1996 by Hempline president, Geof Kime P.Eng., requesting an amendment to Bill C-8 that effectively eliminated the administrative burden on the trade and use of hemp fibre in Canada. Hempline was instrumental in successfully appealing for the implementation of commercial hemp growing regulations in March of 1998. Since that point Canadian farmers have been allowed to grow hemp again on a commercial basis for both fibre and grain.

Due to the positive results of the Company's research and development efforts and the implementation of commercial hemp regulations, Hempline set-up its existing hemp fibre processing operation in the spring of 1998. The operation came on line and produced the first bale of primary hemp fibre in June of 1998, precisely four years after our first research crop was planted. Hempline has since expanded it's product line and the application of its hemp fibres into a wide range of markets including automotive composites, specialty pulp and paper, animal bedding and garden mulch to name a few.

Industrial hemp has proven to be a profitable, naturally renewable resource, with significant economic opportunities and advantages for businesses, processors and farmers alike. As the growth of this industry escalates, Hempline maintains its focus on producing quality hemp fibres at competitive prices for the rapidly growing market of natural fibre consumers and manufacturers.

What does the future hold?
There are many positive trends to indicate that the demand and usage of hemp fibre will continue to see strong and robust growth in the future. The rising price of energy and oil in particular continue to make the cost of synthetic fibres more expensive. Natural materials such as hemp fibre, with excellent performance, can offer a cost effective alternative.

The idea of replacing a non-renewable resource that is pumped or mined from the ground with a renewable, annual resource from plants like hemp is not new – but it is considerably more urgent and economically necessary than ever before. If you couple this with the substantial amount of technological advancements of the past decade in the area of manufacturing renewable resources such as hemp fibre, then the future looks very exciting. If car parts can economically be made from hemp fibre then many other standard, everyday products can't be far behind.

In particular the demand in the building sector for cost effective new technologies and materials that can provide builders, designers, architects and owners with sustainable choices continues to increase. Hemp fibre fits well into this market place and there are many products using hemp fibre either commercially available today or about to be just around the corner. Initiatives such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) that are standardizing and expanding the acceptance of the green building industry will help lead to the wide scale utilization of products like hemp fibre in the building industry.

Here at Hempline (now operating as Stemergy) we are excited about the positive future for hemp fibre and the many existing and new applications these fibres will be used in. We look forward to hearing from you about how our hemp fibres may be used in your applications, today or in the future.

General Info About Hemp Fiber
What is Hemp?
Hemp is a bast fiber plant similar to flax, kenaf, jute and ramie. Long slender primary fibers on the outer portion of the stalk characterize bast fiber plants. The primary hemp fiber is attached to the core fiber by pectin - a glue-like soluble gelatinous carbohydrate. The primary hemp fibers can be used for composites, reinforcements and specilaty pulp and paper. The wood-like core hemp fiber can be used for animal bedding, garden mulch, fuel and an assortment of building materials. Hemp also produces an oil seed that contains between 25 - 35 % oil by weight, which is high in essential fatty acids considered to be necessary to maintain health.

Hemp is an annual plant that grows from seed. It can be grown on a range of soils, but tends to grow best on land that produces high yields of corn. The soil must be well drained, rich in nitrogen, and non-acidic. Hemp requires limited pesticides because is grows so quickly and attracts few pests.

In southwestern Ontario, the hemp when grown for fiber is ready for harvesting when the plants begin to shed pollen in mid-August. To harvest hemp for fiber specialized cutting equipment is required, however equipment as simple as a side bar mower is suitable. Once the hemp fiber crop is cut, the stalks are allowed to cure (rett) in the field to loosen the primary hemp fiber from the core fibre. While the stalks lay in the field, most of the nutrients extracted by the plant are returned to the soil as the leaves decompose. The hemp stalks are turned and then baled with existing hay harvesting equipment, using either large round or square balers. When planted for hemp fiber, the yields range from 2 to 5 tons of dry stalks per acre.

Hemp is a distinct variety of the plant species cannabis sativa L. Due to the similar leaf shape, hemp is frequently confused with marijuana. Although both plants are from the species cannabis, hemp contains virtually no THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the active ingredient in marijuana. Hemp cannot be used as a drug because it produces virtually no THC (less than one per cent), where marijuana produces between 5 - 20 % THC.

Agricultural Info About Hemp
The cultivation of Hemp for fiber
Hemp is known as a bast fiber plant, meaning there are commercially useful fibers in the stalk. Hemp is an annual plant that must be grown from seed each year. The seed is planted in the early spring once the soil is warm. Hemp grown for hemp fiber requires a well prepared seed bed high fertility, good drainage and soil with good amounts of organic matter. Hemp typically does not require herbicides, pesticides or fungicides when planted early at a high plant population.

Hemp grows quickly and can reach heights of 10 to 12 ft. in 75 to 90 days. When hemp is grown for fiber in Ontario the crop is cut down in August and is allowed to lie in the field to cure through what is called the retting process. Retting involves allowing moisture and heat to activate microorganisms that dissolve the naturally occurring glues in the stalk that hold the hemp fibers together. The crop is turned so the retting process takes place evenly. The hemp stalks are baled once the retting process is complete and stored in dry covered storage on the farms. The bales of hemp stalks are delivered to the processing facility on a year round basis.

For further information on the cultivation of hemp see the OMAFRA website: http://www.gov.on.ca/OMAFRA/english/crops/hort/hemp.html

Contracts for Growing Hemp
Hempline Inc. contracts farmers within our area to grow hemp stalks for us. The contracts are established prior to the crop being planted. A predetermined price is paid for each ton of baled hemp stalks produced. The growers must produce the baled hemp stalks according to our specifications. Premiums are paid to the growers according to the delivered conditions of the baled hemp stalks.

At this time we do not contract hemp production outside of a 100 km radius of our processing facility at Delaware, Ontario, Canada. This is due to the cost of transporting the baled hemp stalks long distances and the added expense of inspecting each field. If you are within our growing region and interested in producing hemp on a contract basis please contact us.

Seed Varieties for Growing Hemp
For the most up to date list of approved varieties of hemp for cultivation please contact Health Canada. To purchase hemp seed for cultivation a licence is required from Health Canada.

PRODUCTS

Hempline (now operating as Stemergy) is in the business of extracting and refining the two distinct hemp fibers in the hemp stalk. The primary hemp fiber, which is the long fibers on the outside of the stalk, make an excellent high strength natural reinforcing fiber for composites. The core hemp fiber on the inside of the stalk is a highly absorbent, spongy material used mainly for animal bedding, garden mulch and specialty fillers.

Both of these hemp fibers are highly versatile and available in a range of formats depending on the end application. Hempline (now operating as Stemergy) can custom design a hemp fiber according to your needs. Hempline fibers are available in different package formats and quantities to meet your production or end use requirements.

If you are unsure of what the exact specification of the hemp fiber you may require, in many cases we can suggest a fiber type that will allow you to achieve your fiber procurement objectives. With more than 10 years experience in the natural fiber industry we have earned a reputation of providing fast and courteous service and pride ourselves on helping our customers succeed.

Please feel free to contact us for more information or hemp fiber samples.

Hemp Fiber Products

Primary Fibre :

Primary Hemp Fiber
All of the primary hemp fiber produced and sold by Hempline is made from hemp grown without pesticides and processed without chemicals. The hemp fiber is a uniform natural golden colour typical of field retted stalks. Hemp fiber has a moisture regain of 12% and excellent fiber strength. The primary hemp fiber is pressed into high compression bales to minimize transportation costs.

The primary hemp fiber is available in commercial quantities or by the individual bale and can be shipped internationally. Samples of our hemp fiber are available for testing upon request. The pricing varies based on the fiber specifications, and is comparable or more cost effective than many natural and synthetic fibers. Hempline primary hemp fiber is available with the following specifications and features:

Purity levels between 85% to 99%.

Available in staples lengths between 1/2" to 5", according to your application.

Strength to weight ratio comparable to glass fiber.

Ideally suited to composites requiring high strength, lightweight, ease of recycling and low cost.

Easy to process.

Packaging and quantities according to your requirements.

Logistics and shipping ccan be arranged for most locations.

A specific fiber can be designed to meet your needs.

Applications include: a range of composites such as automotive, furniture and construction; nonwovens and felt; specialty pulp and paper;fibre for hydro mulch and geo-matting; cement and plaster reinforcements; insulation.
Please contact us for primary hemp fiber info or samples.

-----------------

Core Fibre:
Core Hemp Fibre is ideally suited for animal bedding and garden mulch and sold under the HempChips™ brand. Available in 3.2 cu. ft. (90 L) compressed bags through retail outlets and direct-to-stable in truckload quantities. See our HempChips™ section for more core hemp fiber info.

The core hemp fiber can also be ground down to a variety of sizes depending on your end applications. The core hemp fiber can be used as a filler for blending with thermoplastics.

For more information on pricing, delivery, samples, technical information or applications on Hempline core hemp fiber please contact us.

------------------------

Hemp Chips:
Superior Hemp Chips. About HempChips™
HempChips™ are a naturally absorbent, porous cellulose fibre extracted from the core of the hemp stalk and is ideally suited as animal bedding.

Hemp is being grown commercially again in Canada. Harvested for the long slender fibres on the outside of the stalk, it is used for applications in textiles, composites and paper. The core of the stalk is used for animal bedding, garden mulch and building materials. Hemp is an annual plant that grows from seed.

HempChips™ are an entirely natural renewable resource grown without pesticides and processed without chemical additives. HempChips™ are biodegradable and decompose rapidly into quality compost because they originate from an annual plant. They are not palatable to horses due to their limited nutrient content.

People using HempChips™ are always amazed by its absorbency, which result in reduced labour and material usage. Wet areas tend to be smaller and noticeable less often. HempChips™ are easy to use and cost effective, with a monthly usage cost similar to bagged shavings.

Great care has been taken to clean and refine each bag of HempChips™ to ensure a consistent product. We have removed the dust and spores from the HempChips™ through a unique dust extraction process. HempChips™ absorb ammonia, helping to reduce odour. You will find that HempChips™ provide a very clean stable environment due to the dust extracted and ammonia absorbing qualities.

HempChips™ are available in compressed plastic bags and being distributed through out Ontario.

Frequently Asked Questions about HempChips™

Can you legally grow hemp in Canada?

In March of 1998, Health Canada announced and implemented a commercial licensing system for hemp. Farmers can now grow approved varieties of hemp. Hemp grows well in many regions of Canada that currently support agriculture. See Hempline's "About Hemp" section for more information.

Which part of the plant does HempChips™ come from?
HempChips™ are produced from the porous, absorbent core of the hemp stalk. They are cleaned to remove dust and dirt and selected for uniform size range of approximately 1/4" thick, 3/8" wide by 1" long. The leaves from the plant fall off in the field, returning most of the nutrients that the plant extracts from the soil.

Are HempChips™ a new product?
No, hemp has been used as a horse bedding in France for more than 20 years. In the last decade, as the cultivation of hemp increased in other countries, such as England, the use of hemp bedding has expanded significantly. Due to its high absorbency, limited dust content and ease of use and disposal, hemp is considered a premium bedding in Europe. The Queen of England beds her horses down on hemp.

What does "dust-extracted" mean?
"Dust-extracted" is the term that refers to the removal of dust and small particles of contaminants from the material. At Hempline Inc. we have developed a unique process to ensure that every bag of HempChips™ has had the dust removed.

How absorbent are HempChips™?
The core of the hemp stalk is renowned for its absorbency. There are microscopic pores in the material that allow it to absorb liquid very easily. We have found in our trials that one bag of HempChips™ will last up to 5 to 7 days, in comparison to other bedding product that must be changed every day.

Will my horse eat HempChips™?
HempChips™ are a cellulose based material with few nutrients in them so they are unpalatable to horses. A horse that is eating its bedding usually indicates other problems such as a deficiency in their diet or boredom. Consult your veterinary for potential solutions.

Are HempChips™ natural?
Yes, HempChips™ are produced from the core fibre of the annual plant, hemp and as such is a natural renewable resource. We are not using pesticides on the hemp when it is grown, and no chemicals are used during the processing the HempChips™.

Can I mix HempChips™ with other beddings?
We do not recommend mixing HempChips™ with other bedding for the simple reason that you will not fully realize the product benefits. If you mix HempChips™ with a dusty or non-absorbent bedding then you will still have problems associated with the other bedding. Therefore when starting a stall with HempChips™ we recommend you clean the stall out of all other bedding.

Are HempChips™ good for other animals?
Yes, HempChips™ can be used on a range of animals - large and small - from rabbits and hamsters to horses.

Are HempChips™ available in bulk?
No, HempChips™ are not available in loose bulk orders. We have packaged it in compression packed bags so that we can fit more material on a truck and cost effectively distribute it to a larger area. If you are interested in large orders of bags, please contact us.

How much will I use?
You will require 4 bags of HempChips™ to start a 12ft. x 12ft. stall. After laying your initial bed of HempChips™, you will go through one bag every 5 to 7 days, depending on the horse and the amount of time it spends in the stall.

Is it cost effective?
Due to the high absorbency of HempChips™ you will not use as much material as you would with other bedding products. For this reason you have less labour and disposal costs. The overall monthly usage costs with HempChips™ is comparable to bagged shavings.

13. Where can I buy Hemp Chips?
HempChips™ are now being distributed throughout Ontario at a range of retail locations. Please see the distribution list for further information about buying HempChips™.

If you have any other questions that have not been covered here, please contact us. We are happy to answer them.

Buying Hemp Chips
HempChips™ are available in the following format:

Clear Plastic Bags
Compressed Volume of 3.2 Cu. Ft. (90 L)
Suggested List Price $14.95 per bag
Four bags are recommended to start a 12 ft. x 12 ft. stall.

One bag will last approximately 5-7 days depending on horse and turnout rate.

Using HempChips™ as horse bedding:
Before starting a stall with HempChips™ be sure it is clean from all other bedding and manure. Mixing HempChips™ with other types of bedding will limit achievement of all the product benefits.

We recommend using 4 bags of HempChips™ to start a 12ft. x 12 ft. stall.

To activate the absorption qualities of the HempChips™ we recommend sprinkling 1-2 gallons of water over them once placed in the stall.

Remove the manure daily, digging out the wet spots as required.

Expect to use only one bag of HempChips™ every 5-7 days depending on the horse and the daily turn out time.

You will find that a much smaller manure pile is produced due to the reduced material being removed in comparison to other bedding products.

Using HempChips™ as a garden mulch:

HempChips™ can be used through spring, summer, or fall as a garden mulch to replace wood based mulches

To use as a garden mulch spread the HempChips™ about 2-4 inches deep over the garden area to keep plants moist and reduce weed pressure. Water as needed.

The HempChips™, if left undisturbed ,once dry will slightly crust over and will not blow away.

You can blend HempChips™ with other top mulches to change the appearance of your garden to suit your taste.

Using HempChips™ as a soil amender:

HempChips™ are a great alternative to peat moss for potting soils and when transplanting young plants into your garden.

Add 4-5 liters of HempChips™ to 1 bag of soil (approximately a 10:1 ratio of soil to HempChips™). The light colour of HempChips™ contrasts against the dark soil to give you an easy way to determine the ratio.

Use mixture of soil and HempChips™ for potting and transplanting as needed.

Articles about Hempline Inc., hemp and flax fibre and renewable materials:

Agricultural Info About Hemp

The cultivation of Hemp for fiber

Hemp is known as a bast fiber plant, meaning there are commercially useful fibers in the stalk. Hemp is an annual plant that must be grown from seed each year. The seed is planted in the early spring once the soil is warm. Hemp grown for hemp fiber requires a well prepared seed bed high fertility, good drainage and soil with good amounts of organic matter. Hemp typically does not require herbicides, pesticides or fungicides when planted early at a high plant population.

Hemp grows quickly and can reach heights of 10 to 12 ft. in 75 to 90 days. When hemp is grown for fiber in Ontario the crop is cut down in August and is allowed to lie in the field to cure through what is called the retting process. Retting involves allowing moisture and heat to activate microorganisms that dissolve the naturally occurring glues in the stalk that hold the hemp fibers together. The crop is turned so the retting process takes place evenly. The hemp stalks are baled once the retting process is complete and stored in dry covered storage on the farms. The bales of hemp stalks are delivered to the processing facility on a year round basis.

For further information on the cultivation of hemp see the OMAFRA website: http://www.gov.on.ca/OMAFRA/english/crops/hort/hemp.html

Contracts for Growing Hemp

Hempline Inc. contracts farmers within our area to grow hemp stalks for us. The contracts are established prior to the crop being planted. A predetermined price is paid for each ton of baled hemp stalks produced. The growers must produce the baled hemp stalks according to our specifications. Premiums are paid to the growers according to the delivered conditions of the baled hemp stalks.

At this time we do not contract hemp production outside of a 100 km radius of our processing facility at Delaware, Ontario, Canada. This is due to the cost of transporting the baled hemp stalks long distances and the added expense of inspecting each field. If you are within our growing region and interested in producing hemp on a contract basis please contact us.

Seed Varieties for Growing Hemp

For the most up to date list of approved varieties of hemp for cultivation please contact Health Canada. To purchase hemp seed for cultivation a licence is required from Health Canada.

-------------------------

Hemp Fiber is Highly Versatile
Both the core of the hemp stalk and the long fibres on the outside of the stalk, called primary hemp fiber, can be used for a wide range of applications. The good performance and cost effectiveness of both of these hemp fibers lend themselves to new or existing applications were alternative fibre solutions are required. With the rising cost of many existing non or semi renewable based resources, hemp fiber is quickly becoming the fibre of choice for a cost and performance conscious consumer interested in a more sustainable approach.

Core Hemp Fiber Applications:
The core hemp fiber, a spongy, absorbent material can be produced in a number of particle sizes. The applications extend beyond animal bedding and garden mulch to include specialty fillers in consumer and building products. Core hemp fibre is becoming popular in lightweight concrete in the fast growing green building industry. If you have a new product application in mind we are pleased to supply you with samples, and can ship our core hemp fibers to any location in North America or beyond upon request.

Primary Hemp Fiber Applications:
The primary hemp fiber is well known for its high tensile strength and stiffness. The modern applications for primary hemp fiber are as a reinforcing fiber in composites. The primary hemp fiber does equally as well with plastic binding systems using thermoplastic and thermoset resins. The primary hemp fiber is also being used more recently with plaster and cement. These hemp fibers also can be used for the production of specialty pulp and paper. The primary hemp fibers are available in different staple length, purity and can be packaged according to the requirements of the end applications. Due to the large number of existing and future end uses, the primary hemp fiber may in fact be used in a product you are not event aware of. We can make samples of primary hemp fiber available in a range of formats, including custom made hemp fibers according to your specifcations.

Have a New Application Idea for Hemp Fiber?
We welcome your inquiry for new ideas or questions on how to utilzie hemp fiber in your product or process. Given the many years of epxerience Hempline has in creating new applications for hemp fiber we are happy to assist you with your project, large or small. We may even be able to help you find a researcher working with hemp fiber in your area of interest, or a possible supplier of fiber that has been converetd into a format that will work in your process. Please contact us so that we can provide you with samples of our hemp fiber for your product development.

Please check back fro time to time at our site as we will try to post new applications for hemp fiber as new information and value added opportunites become available. The applications for hemp fiber are limited only to your imagination!

Hemp Fiber Applications

Hemp Fiber Based Pulp and Paper
Hempline primary hemp fiber is an excellent raw material for a range of specialty pulp and paper products. Through traditional mechanical or chemi-mechanical pulping techniques hemp basd pulp can be used for a range of applications including:

Recycled paper strengthening
Filter paper
Currency and bond paper
High quality document paper
Handmade paper
Since Hempline Inc. only supplies hemp fiber for specialty pulp production and does not sell hemp paper, please refer to our links section for companies that produce and sell hemp based paper.

If you would like more info or samples of our hemp fiber suitable for making specialty pulp and paper please feel free to contact us.

Hemp Fiber Composites
The most rapidly expanding application for hemp fiber is as a reinforcement in composites. The blending materials range from thermoplastics such as polypropylene and polyethylene to thermoset fiber such as polyester. The common application is to blend hemp fiber with polypropylene in a nonwoven (felt) mat that is then compression molded to form a three dimensional part. Typical applications include automotive interior substrates, furniture and other consumer products.

Hemp fiber is also being used to produce mineral based composites, in much the same way polypropylene or glass fiber is used to reinforce cement or plaster. The rising price of energy is making these other reinforcing fibers more expensive and the excellent properties and cost of hemp fiber are opening up new applications everyday.

Hemp Fiber Composites for Automotive:
Presently, the single largest use for hemp fiber produced in North America is for automotive composite products. There are a number of ways hemp fiber can be used to create a biofiber based composite for automotive applications. Typically, hemp fiber is blended with polypropylene or polyester fiber to produce a nonwoven (felt) material.

In the case of a hemp fiber composite made from a blend of hemp fiber and a thermoplastic such as polypropylene, the hemp fiber based mat is heated to the melting point of the plastic, then placed into a matched metal mold, and compressed under pressure. The molded hemp fiber and plastic part is removed from the mold, cooled and further attachments or finishing of the part is done. The hemp fiber part would typically be used for interior trim applications such as a door panel, window pillar, package tray or trunk liner.

In the case of a hemp fiber composite made from a blend of hemp fiber and a thermoset resin such as polyester, the hemp fiber based mat is usually placed into a heated matched metal mold, sprayed with the thermoset resin, and then compressed under pressure. The molded hemp fiber based part is finished in the same way as other compression molded materials. There are a wide range of thermoset resins being developed that are compatible with hemp fiber for composite products. Some of these are plant based so that a 100% biocomposite is technically feasible and soon to be in full commercial production using resins based from soy canola or corn.

In addition to hemp fiber nonwoven composites from nonwoven materials it is also possible to make other hemp fiber and plastic composites. The use of injection molding technology is starting to can ground using hemp fiber as a reinforcing material. There are compounding systems that can blend hemp fiber with different thermoplastic and extrude them for use in injection molding, thus allowing hemp fiber to be used in more complex shapes and structures.

The use of plant fibers like hemp as a cost and performance effective reinforcement was largely developed in Europe in the early 1990's and has been embraced by North American car makers at the end of the 1990's. Hemp fiber is of interest to automotive and other applications due to the following features:

Cost effective.
High tensile strength and stiffness.
Ideally suited for needle punched nonwoven products.
Effective replacement for glass fiber.
Reduces molding time.
Weight reduction in finished part.
Easy to process and recycle.
Can be customized to meet a variety of specifications and different manufacturing systems.
Consistent quality and availability of supply is possible.
Hemp Fiber Composites for Consumer Products:
Many of the technologies developed for automotive applications can be used to make consumer composites from hemp fiber. It is possible to use compression molding, injections molding, simple hand lay-ups or hybrid technologies to produce consumer goods. Such products include furniture (chair backs or seats) sporting goods and recreational products , luggage, musical instruments and sound reinforcement gear.

In most applications if the product uses glass fiber then hemp fiber most likely could be substituted as a reinforcement in the product. Given the large number of inquiries we receive from companies wanting to develop hemp fiber composites it is likely you will see some new and novel applications in the market place very soon. Someone, somewhere will begin to mass produce a hemp fiber skateboard or hemp fiber snowboard – it is just a matter of time.

Hemp Fiber Composites for Building Materials:
Beyond automotive the use of hemp fiber and other biofiber materials are expected to make large in-roads into home and commercial construction in the years to come. The applications are numerous and hemp fiber can help innovative companies achieve their goals of implementing sustainable and environmentally sounds building practices that are both cost effective and affordable. Some of the products that are in the works include panel materials, utilizing hemp and earth-friendly binders as an alternative to wood-based panels such as ply-wood. New systems for blending hemp fiber with concrete or stucco are already in place and being refined as your read. Hemp fiber based insulation is available in Europe and detined to be implemented in North America in the foreseeable future. In short, hemp fiber and other bio-fibers will be the new materials in the high-energy cost era that has become a reality.

Let use help you to find a way to implement hemp fiber into your project or product. We have years of experience in this area and are more than pleased to help. Just ask!

Hemp Fiber Nonwoven and Felt
Primary hemp fiber is an excellent raw material for the production of different weights and formats of nonwoven and felt materials. Hemp fiber can easily be integrated into existing nonwoven production systems that utilize either an air-laid or card-based web forming systems, with either needle punch or thermo–setting methods used to hold the nonwoven together.

Different densities and thicknesses of the nonwoven can be achieved according to the end application. Common weights for hemp fiber based nonwovens range from 400 g/sq.m. to 3,000 g/sq.m. or above. Hemp fiber is often blended with a variety of materials including other natural fibers and synthetic fibers such as polypropylene or polyester in order to achieve different performance criteria for the nonwoven.

The use of hemp fiber in nonwovens or felt dates back many years as a stuffing material for horse and buggies seats, and in modern times as the substrate for molded automotive composites. The rising cost of synthetic based fibers has increased the demand for natural fibers such as hemp fiber. The use of hemp fiber in the production of nonwovens is a tried and proven application for many different products.

Applications for Hemp Fiber Nonwoven and Felt
Geo-textiles
Automotive composite substrates and sound absorbing materials
Insulation
Furniture, mattress and futon padding
Horticultural growing mediums
Carpet backing

To find out more about using hemp fiber in a nonwoven application please contact us for samples and further product information.

-------------------------

Hempline Inc. now operating as Stemergy: Renewable Fibre Technologies

Delaware, Ontario, Canada (December 6, 2006) . Hempline Inc., the pioneer of the Canadian industrial hemp fibre industry and a leader in the development of renewable fibres, will begin operating under the name Stemergy: Renewable Fibre Technologies. The new name reflects the Company's shift into additional fibres such as flax and the development of an integrated value added chain that extends from agronomics through to novel composite products. The name change also signals a new day for the Company which has operated in Southern Ontario since 1994, as it looks towards several exciting new opportunities on the horizon.

"Stemergy is positioning itself to not only supply a range of renewable fibres that perform better than traditional energy intensive materials, but the Company is moving in exciting directions related to the creation of new products and value added technologies" said Company president and founder Geofrey Kime, P.Eng.. It should be noted that Stemergy has developed a new infrastructure for producing renewable fibres that extends from seed, through agronomics, processing, and into a variety of end markets.

In the era of rising fossil fuel and energy prices, using annual plants to efficiently and quickly convert solar energy and green house gases into useful materials makes economic sense. "We are heading into a new economy where renewable materials will continue to replace old style energy intensive materials and processes. Stemergy intends to extend it's leadership position in the renewable fibre technology sector. We are very excited about the Company's future growth prospects" commented Mr. Kime.

Hempline Inc. (now operating as Stemergy) was formed in 1994, and in that same year became the first company to grow industrial hemp for research purposes since the 1940's. The Company has successfully developed and operated a large R&D facility at Delaware, Ontario since 1998 and has created technology and expertise for extracting and refining the fibres in stem fibre plants. The Company has established a range of new markets and customers for its products and is presently expanding its capacity to meet growing demand.

Contact
For more information please refer your inquiries to:

Geofrey G. Kime, P.Eng.
President
Tel: 519 652 0450
fax: 519 652 3063
website: www.stemergy.com
11157 Longwoods Rd.,
Delaware, Ontario Canada

Articles about Hempline Inc., hemp and flax fibre and renewable materials Including All The Latest News See: http://www.hempline.com/hemp/hemp_articles/

Link to Hempline: http://www.hempline.com