Out now: Hemp as a Construction Material 

Bauhaus Earth recently explored the performance and regenerative potential of hemp-based materials as alternatives to conventional insulation. The findings are now presented in our new Material Guide, covering aspects such as the role of different binders (lime, earth), variations in hemp shiv size, and multiple binder-to-fiber ratios.

Hemp: Potentials & Performance

The study demonstrates that bio-based materials can do more than reduce emissions: they also support circular and regenerative construction practices. Continued research into material composition and performance will be crucial for advancing sustainable building systems.

Hemp-based composites emerged as a viable, low-emission alternative to conventional insulation, offering:
– Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
– Improved thermal performance
– Potential to support local ecosystem restoration

Six hemp composite formulations were developed based on current literature. These were tested for thermal conductivity, raw density, compressive strength, fire resistance, and global warming potential.

Results showed only marginal performance differences between hemp–earth and hemp–lime mixtures in thermal conductivity, compressive strength, and fire resistance. However, significant differences emerged in environmental impact between the two binders, with earth performing more favorably than lime.

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Application & Next Steps

The composites were developed with a potential application in Bhutan in mind. While additional reinforcement would be needed to use the material in prefabricated structural blocks, all mixtures performed well for in-situ insulation.

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The Study forms part of ReBuilt, funded by the Federal Ministry for the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety.