CROTALARIA JUNCEA: A POTENTIAL MULTI-PURPOSE FIBER CROP

Authors: Cook, Charles; White, George

Submitted to: National Symposium on New Crops
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/30/1996
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: For the past 25 years, research has been underway to identify potential nonwood fiber sources. From these efforts, sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) has been identified as one of the most promising plant species for providing a renewable fiber source. Research has shown that the soft, lignified fibers produced in the stem of the sunn hemp could be utilized in the manufacturing of cordage and pulp and paper products. In addition, sunn hemp produces high organic matter yields, is able to fix nitrogen, and can reduce the build-up of root-knot nematode populations. The fibers of sunn hemp are generally as good as or better than the wood fibers presently used. Sunn hemp possesses the following properties that make it an excellent candidate for papermaking: (a) good yields of bleachable sulfate pulps, (b) pulp strength properties that are equal to or greater than those of mixed southern hardwood pulp, and (c) bast fiber length to width ratio that is greater than those of wood fibers. Past and present research efforts have identified sunn hemp as an alternative nonwood fiber resource. More recent efforts have focused on new product development.

Technical Abstract: As world wood fiber supplies become limited, alternative fiber sources must be located. Sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) has long been recognized as a potential nonwood fiber source. Past research efforts have shown that the soft, lignified fibers produced in the stem of sunn hemp could be utilized in the manufacturing of pulp and paper, and more recent efforts have indicated that other potential products can be developed from these fibers. Additional characteristics that enhance the economic potential of sunn hemp are low nitrogen fertilization requirements, the ability to fix nitrogen and to grow in marginal soils, drought resistance, and resistance to root-knot nematodes. Unlike kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.), another potential nonwood fiber crop, sunn hemp is highly resistant to root-knot nematodes, and the stalks dry out more rapidly after a killing frost. Research has shown that sunn hemp can be successfully grown as a fiber crop, and that these fibers can supplement many of the current fiber market needs. Present research is aimed at identifying new market opportunities.