---
type: "fiber"
name: "Hemp"
slug: "hemp"
fiber_type: "cellulosic"
fiber_origin: "natural_plant"
trade_names:
  - "Hemp Fabric"
  - "Hemp Twill"
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/hemp"
updated: "2025-09-07T19:10:33.351083+00:00"
---

# Hemp

Strong, durable plant fiber with excellent UV resistance and antimicrobial properties.

- **Fiber Type**: Cellulosic
- **Origin**: Natural Plant
- **Production Method**: Retting, followed by mechanical processing
- **Also Known As**: Industrial Hemp, Cannabis Fiber
- **Trade Names**: Hemp Fabric, Hemp Twill

## About Hemp

Hemp fiber comes from the Cannabis sativa plant, specifically industrial varieties with minimal THC content. Hemp is one of the strongest natural fibers and becomes softer with each wash while maintaining its strength.

## Key Properties

- **Density**: 1.48 g/cm³
- **Fiber Diameter**: 20 µm
- **Fiber Length**: 30 mm
- **Linear Density**: 9 denier
- **Tensile Strength**: 550 MPa
- **Elongation at Break**: 3%
- **Moisture Regain**: 13%
- **Heat Resistance**: 200 °C
- **Natural Color**: beige
- **Luster**: Semi Dull

## Performance Characteristics

- **Abrasion Resistance**: Good
- **Pilling Resistance**: Fair
- **Wrinkle Resistance**: Good
- **UV Resistance**: Excellent
- **Chemical Resistance**: Good
- **Moisture Absorption**: Good
- **Wicking**: Good
- **Breathability**: Excellent
- **Elastic Recovery**: Fair
- **Dimensional Stability**: Good
- **Dyeability**: Good

## Strengths

- Extremely durable
- UV resistant
- Antimicrobial
- Sustainable

## Limitations

- Coarse initially
- Limited color range
- Processing challenges

## Sustainability

- **Biodegradable**: Yes
- **Recyclable**: Yes
- **Renewable Source**: Yes
- **Bio-based Content**: 100%
- **Recycled Content**: 0%
- **Certifications**: OEKO-TEX, GOTS
- **Major Producers**: China, Canada, France

## Care

- **Max Wash Temperature**: 60 °C
- **Max Ironing Temperature**: 200 °C
- **Dry Cleaning**: Safe
- **Bleach Compatibility**: No Bleach

Avoid harsh chemicals during washing.

## Common Applications

- Jeans
- Canvas
- Rope
- Bags
- Outdoor Gear

## Common Uses in Detail

### Durable Denim Apparel

Hemp's exceptional tensile strength makes it ideal for [Denim](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/denim) jeans and workwear. Its fibers resist wear and tear far longer than conventional [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton), while natural antimicrobial properties keep garments fresher between washes, making it a practical and sustainable choice for everyday clothing.

### Outdoor & Industrial Canvas

Prized for outstanding UV resistance and weatherproofing capability, hemp canvas is widely used in bags, tarps, tents, and sails. Its natural durability allows it to withstand prolonged outdoor exposure without degrading, making it a trusted material for demanding industrial and outdoor applications.

### Automotive Composites

Manufacturers increasingly use hemp fiber as a reinforcement material in automotive interior panels and structural composites. Its high strength-to-weight ratio reduces vehicle weight while offering a renewable alternative to fiberglass, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and lower environmental impact in modern vehicle production.

## Similar Fibers

- [Cotton](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/cotton.md) — Cellulosic

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*Source: [Fabric Atlas](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/hemp) — HTML version of this page.*