Kenaf Research Articles

Fabrication of kenaf fiber reinforced boron carbide fillers embedded epoxy matrix composite – An antimicrobial and structural analysis

This study investigates the incorporation of boron carbide (B4C) filler particulates into a kenaf fiber-reinforced epoxy matrix to explore its potential in lightweight applications, focusing on antimicrobial effectiveness, mechanical integrity, thermal properties, and microstructural characteristics. The composite material was formulated by blending varying seven different concentrations of boron carbide (0–50 g) and kenaf fibers (KFs) with an epoxy resin, aiming to achieve a balance between mechanical strength and minimal weight. Antimicrobial test revealed that the composite material, consisting of kenaf fiber reinforced with B4C particulates, exhibited significant antibacterial activity against common pathogens. Mechanical testing indicated that the addition of boron carbide and kenaf fibers significantly improved the tensile strength and flexural rigidity of the composites. Specifically, enhancements in tensile strength and flexural modulus were quantitatively analyzed, showing notable increases compared to the base epoxy resin. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed to examine the fracture surfaces following mechanical testing, revealing improved interfacial bonding between the kenaf fibers and the epoxy matrix due to the presence of boron carbide. This microscopic analysis also highlighted areas where stress distribution was optimized, contributing to the composite's enhanced mechanical properties.

Physical, mechanical and thermal properties of novel bamboo/kenaf fiber-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) hybrid composites

This study investigates the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of bamboo (BF) and kenaf (KF) fiber-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) hybrid composites. Three hybrid (30BF-70KF, 50BF-50KF, and 70BF-30KF) and two non-hybrid (BF-PLA and KF-PLA) composites were developed through twin screw extrusion and compression molding techniques. The physical properties (density, void content, crystallinity via XRD, and chemical interactions via FTIR), mechanical properties (tensile, flexural, compressive, impact, and hardness), and thermal properties (Thermogravimetric analysis-TGA and Differential scanning calorimetry-DSC) were thoroughly analyzed. BF reinforcement reduced the composites’ density to 1.1826 g/cm³, while the inclusion of KF increased it to 1.2479 g/cm³. 50:50 blend of bamboo-kenaf reinforcement achieved the lowest void content of 0.27 %. The XRD patterns revealed heightened crystallinity in the BF-PLA composite. FTIR analysis showed stable functional groups, with O–H absorption bands indicative of cellulosic fibers. The BF-PLA non-hybrid composite exhibited the highest tensile strength at 25.95 MPa and compressive strength at 173.15 MPa, with the 30BF-70KF hybrid composite showing notable impact strength. Fractured morphology by FESEM revealed superior fiber-matrix adhesion for BF-PLA composite. TGA demonstrated a variation in thermal degradation temperatures, with the BF30-KF70 composite showing the highest onset of degradation at 484 °C. DSC analysis indicated a reduction in the glass transition temperature (Tg) across all fiber-reinforced samples and revealed significant adjustments in melting and crystallization temperatures. This research highlights the potential of BF-KF/PLA hybrid composites in the development of eco-friendly plastic furniture and consumer products.

Mechanical characteristics of kenaf-glass fiber reinforced hybrid composites by varying the stacking sequences

Fiber composite materials are preferred for their lightweight, low-cost, and commercial uses. As part of this study, laminate materials consisting of two different fiber materials as their reinforcement materials are produced using the hand layup method. This study investigates the mechanical properties of hybrid composite laminates fabricated using kenaf and glass fibers. Six stacking arrangements of the fibers are examined, alongside two reference laminates with individual reinforcements. Epoxy resins HY951 and LY556 serve as matrix materials. ASTM standards guide the mechanical testing of the composites. Results indicate varied tensile strengths based on stacking sequence, with laminate L2 (KKGKK) featuring a single glass fiber core at 75 MPa, and increasing strengths in laminates with additional glass layers: L1 (GKKKG) at 123 MPa, L5 (KGKGK) at 110 MPa, L3 (GKGKG) at 150 MPa, L6 (KGGGK) at 118 MPa, and L4 (GGKGG) at 159 MPa, the highest among all. It was observed that adding one layer of glass fiber with kenaf fiber boosts strength and modulus by 9.52% and 12.19% respectively, compared to pure kenaf fiber composites. Morphological analysis via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) confirms failure due to initial crack propagation in the matrix and fibers. This study offers insights into hybrid composite laminate behavior, pertinent for various industrial applications.

Sodium metasilicate-activated one-part geopolymer concrete: Impact strength assessment with bottom ash substitution and fiber reinforcement

This study aims to investigate the effect of fibers on the impact strength of fibrous one-part geopolymer concrete (OPGC) to mitigate its brittleness. This research examines the impact strength of OPGC activated with sodium metasilicate pentahydrate, utilizing fly ash as a precursor material. The study uniquely explores the effects of bottom ash, substituted at varying levels (25 % to 100 %) for sand, within the OGPC matrix. Additionally, incorporating two distinct fiber types, polypropylene and kenaf, individually at 0.5 % and in a hybrid combination at 0.25 % each, offers a fresh perspective on fiber reinforcement in OGPC. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction provide critical insights into the microstructural and mineralogical properties of the developed OPGC. The impact strength of OPGC with this specific combination of materials has not been previously investigated by any researchers, establishing the novelty of this study. Results revealed that the combination of fibers with 25 % BA exhibited a synergistic effect, leading to a notable enhancement in impact strength. Conversely, the impact strength declined with other combinations of materials. Polypropylene fibers demonstrated the highest performance in terms of impact strength for OPGC, followed by the hybrid fiber combination, with kenaf fibers exhibiting the lowest performance in this regard.

Electrical and dynamic mechanical analysis of kenaf fiber reinforced epoxy composites hybridized with acacia concinna powder

The objective of this work is to create and analyze composites made of kenaf fibers and epoxy polymer, which are strengthened by the addition of Acacia concinna pod (ACP) powder. These composites are intended for use in electrical insulation applications. The study investigated the impact of alkali treatment using a 6% NaOH solution on kenaf fiber. The effects were analyzed in relation to the dielectric and dynamic mechanical properties, while also considering the addition of different quantities of ACP powder (0%, 4%, and 8%). The composites were produced using the hand layup method, and the dielectric constant, dissipation factor, storage modulus, loss modulus, and damping factor were assessed. The study demonstrated that NaOH-treated kenaf fiber composites displayed considerably lower dielectric constant values than untreated composites, due to increased fiber crystallinity and decreased moisture absorption. Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) found that untreated composites had greater storage modulus and glass transition temperature (Tg) due to reduced segmental motion at the fiber-matrix interface. SEM research indicated better fiber-matrix bonding in treated composites, with decreased voids and robust interlocking, notably in those containing 4% Acacia concinna (ACP) filler. These findings show that NaOH treatment substantially enhances the performance of hybrid composites for electrical insulating applications.

Functional characterization of malate dehydrogenase, HcMDH1, gene in enhancing abiotic stress tolerance in kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.)

Drought and salt stress are two important environmental factors that significantly restrict plant growth and reproduction. Malate dehydrogenase is essential to life as it is engaged in numerous physiological processes in cells, particularly those related to abiotic stress reactions. However, a complete understanding of MDH family members in kenaf is not clear yet. In this study, subcellular localization analysis and a yeast transcriptional activation assay revealed that HcMDH1 was localized in chloroplasts but had no transcriptional activation activity. When exposed to salt or drought stress, yeast cells expressing the HcMDH1 gene exhibit an increased survival rate. Overexpression of HcMDH1 in Arabidopsis increased seed germination rate and root growth when transgenic lines were exposed to varying concentrations of mannitol and NaCl. Subsequent physiological studies revealed that transgenic lines had higher concentrations of soluble carbohydrates, proline, and chlorophyll and lower concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, inhibiting HcMDH1 in kenaf using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) decreased salt and drought tolerance due to elevated ROS and MDA levels. In these silenced lines, the expression of six essential genes engaged in stress-resistance and photosynthesis, namely HcGAPDH, HcGLYK, HcFBA, HcFBPase, HcPGA, and HcLSD, is significantly altered under salt and drought stress. In summary, HcMDH1 is a complex and positive regulatory gene that plays a key role in regulating chlorophyll content, antioxidant enzyme activity and osmotic regulation under salt and drought stress, which may have implications for kenaf transgenic breeding.Graphical

On the interlaminar mode II fracture toughness evaluation of glass Fiber/Epoxy composites with cotton and kenaf natural fibers utilizing acoustic emission features

Considering the widespread use of polymer composites due to their diverse engineering properties, the incorporation of natural fibers is a novel approach to enhance their environmental properties and acquire additional engineering benefits. Applying natural fibers in composites can offer a biocompatible solution to plastic and polymer composite waste issues. Studying the overall properties of composites made with these fibers is a novel area of research. Investigating effective methods for detecting defects and measuring mechanical properties, such as integrity, resilience to failure, and fracture toughness, is particularly crucial. In the current study, the effect of adding cotton and kenaf natural fibers on the resistance to delamination, which is the most common type of failure in laminated composites, is investigated in mode Ⅱ of loading. Specimens of woven glass/epoxy composites with natural fibers were fabricated using the hand lay-up method and end notched three-point bending test was performed. Using the methods provided in the JIS K 7086 standard, the moment of initiation of delamination is determined in the samples. The results demonstrate that only using the mechanical methods provided in the mentioned standard is not sufficient to determine the initiation of delamination. Hence, the acoustic emission can be employed for an easier and more accurate determination of the initiation of delamination. According to the obtained results, cotton and kenaf fibers show a significant increase in the interlaminar fracture toughness of woven glass/epoxy composites. Using cotton fibers shows 212% − 249% and employing kenaf fibers shows 144% − 281% increase in interlaminar fracture toughness respectively. Among the different acoustic emission data analytics, the cumulative energy method shows the lowest mean percentage deviation error of %2.59 among other examined diagnosing techniques.

Physio-mechanical and thermal behavior of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) fiber-reinforced epoxy composites: effect of eco-friendly treatment

Physio-mechanical and thermal behavior of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) fiber-reinforced epoxy composites: effect of eco-friendly treatment

Genome-Wide Analysis of the Nramp Gene Family in Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus): Identification, Expression Analysis, and Response to Cadmium Stress.

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinu) is a grass bast fiber crop that has the ability to tolerate and accumulate heavy metals, and it has been considered as a potential heavy metal accumulator and remediation plant. Nramp is a natural resistance-related macrophage, which plays an important role in the transport of divalent metal ions, plant growth and development, and abiotic stress. In this study, the Nramp gene family of kenaf was analyzed at the whole genome level. A total of 15 HcNramp genes were identified. They are distributed unevenly on chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis classified 15 HcNramp proteins into 3 different subfamilies. All proteins share specific motif 4 and motif 6, and the genes belonging to the same subfamily are similar in structure and motif. The promoters are rich in hormone response, meristem expression, and environmental stress response elements. Under different treatments, the expression levels of HcNramp genes vary in different tissues, and most of them are expressed in roots first. These findings can provide a basis for understanding the potential role of the Nramp gene family in kenaf in response to cadmium (Cd) stress, and are of great significance for screening related Cd tolerance genes in kenaf.

Study of extraction and characterization of ultimate kenaf fibres

This study proposed an extraction process of Tunisian kenaf fibres to obtain ultimate fibres with minimum aspect ratio, minimum retention capacity and high yield and high absorption capacity. The extraction process was performed by varying the treatment duration (120–180 min), the temperature (110–130°C), and the sodium concentration (10–40 g/l). After that, a factorial design, that has been built using statistical software Minitab.17, was followed to identify the optimum operating conditions. After the extraction process, kenaf fibres were used to produce dry-laid nonwoven fabrics. Results reveal that mixed treatment improves the absorption properties of fibres. To characterize these fibres, some properties were measured like morphological structure and absorption properties: absorption and retention capacity. The morphology of the cellulose fibres (length and, diameter distribution), obtained from the optimum process, was determined by measuring 300 fibres with «Leica» optical microscopy. Ultimate fibres extracted from kenaf had an absorption capacity of 12.5 g/g and a retention capacity of 0.65 g/g. Finally, the characteristics of the optimum ultimate kenaf were compared to those of other vegetable fibres.

Genome-wide identification of bHLH transcription factors in Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) and gene function analysis of HcbHLH88.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12298-024-01504-y.

Mechanical durability and degradation characteristics of long kenaf-reinforced PLA composites fabricated using an eco-friendly method

The research has focused on evaluating the mechanical strength of long unidirectional kenaf-PLA composite and the degradation effect after accelerated weathering exposure. The composite was fabricated using a green traditional method of hot-pressing method with different compositions of non-chemically treated kenaf fiber to PLA with the ratio of 30:70, 40:60, 50:50, and 60:40. The finding of this work demonstrated fiber weight-matrix ratio of 50:50 gain a remarkable optimum strength with 224 % and 239 % enhancement for tensile and flexural strength respectively. The applied enhanced Rule of Mixture (E-ROM) model used in this study was reliable in predicting the experimental results whereby the composites reached an optimum value. Despite the successful enhancement of fiber–matrix compatibility and composite strength, the presence of fiber misalignment, structural imperfections, and voids observed in scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images still has some detrimental effects on its degradability. Nevertheless, a noteworthy strength reduction of PLA (80 %) as compared to the PLA-kenaf composite demonstrated better resistivity of weathering for the composite after 508 h. Hence, this study suggests deeper insights into the viability of eco-friendly combed methods as fiber treatments for kenaf as PLA reinforcement. It is proven that even without any chemical treatment, the composite demonstrated a remarkable mechanical resilience suitable for indoor non-structural applications.

Microwave-assisted fabrication of high-strength natural fiber hybrid composites for sustainable applications: An experimental and computational study

The present study deals with the fabrication of hybrid composites using biodegradable and ecologically friendly natural fibers and a recyclable thermoplastic matrix. Pure and hybrid natural fiber composites of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with Kenaf and Ramie fiber, 20 wt%, were fabricated using microwave-assisted compression molding. The composite's mechanical characterization was performed using tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness tests. X-ray diffraction was done to investigate the crystallinity percentage, and scanning electron microscopy of fractured surfaces was performed to determine failure mechanisms. The hybrid composite of HDPE/Ramie and Kenaf exhibited the highest ultimate tensile strength (UTS) at 29.3 ± 1.2 MPa, surpassing HDPE/Kenaf (21.6 ± 1.1 MPa) and HDPE/Ramie (24.3 ± 1.4 MPa) composites. In terms of flexural strength, HDPE/Ramie demonstrated the highest at 19.9 ± 1.5 MPa, while HDPE/Kenaf had the lowest at 18 ± 1.1 MPa. The hybrid composite's flexural strength was intermediate at 19 ± 1.3 MPa. Impact strength followed a similar trend, with the hybrid composite leading at 40.2 KJ/m2, followed by HDPE/Ramie (26.9 KJ/m2) and HDPE/Kenaf (12.3 KJ/m2). Hardness tests revealed the highest hardness in the hybrid composite and the lowest in HDPE/Kenaf. A computational study has been performed to develop a model for predicting the hybrid composites. A strong agreement between both studies has been observed. The developed composite is deemed suitable for various light-duty applications, such as roofing, car interior panels, and mobile covers, offering potential benefits in reducing carbon footprint.

A novel hydro-char mediated magnetic catalyst from Hibiscus cannabinus agricultural bio-waste in photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutant

A novel hydro-char mediated magnetic catalyst from Hibiscus cannabinus agricultural bio-waste in photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutant

Enhanced mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of waste PET plastics reinforced with coated biodegradable kenaf fibers for infrastructure applications

The surge in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottle production has led to a rise in waste PET plastics. Recycling these waste PET plastics for infrastructural purposes offers a feasible solution to curb environmental pollution and the climatic impact caused by dumping vast quantities into landfills. Hence, efforts have been directed towards creating waste PET plastic composites reinforced with coated biodegradable natural kenaf fibers for infrastructural use. In the current research, waste PET plastic bottles (WPET) were processed into value-added composites compounded with coated kenaf natural fibers (CK) using the twin-screw extruder (TSE) and compression molding machines at an optimized temperature of 250 °C with a constant fiber weight percentage and epoxy coating concentration of 10 wt% and 25 % conc., respectively. The composites underwent analysis for mechanical, thermal, and microstructural properties based on relevant ASTM standards. Results indicate significant enhancement in surface interactions/interface and improved mechanical and thermal properties of kenaf fibers due to epoxy coating. Thermal stability improved to 409.4 °C from 397.0 °C due to coating, with a higher melting peak of 252.8 °C. These materials exhibit suitability for energy and building infrastructural applications, presenting an alternative, economical, and sustainable approach to managing the abundance of waste PET plastic bottles.

Sialkoti paper used by Pahari artists: raw materials and fibre analysis

This study aims to characterise the so-called Sialkoti paper used to produce Pahari drawings preserved today in the Wereldmuseum in Leiden (Netherlands) (WML). These works originate from the Punjab Hills in India (today Himachal Pradesh) and are commonly known as ‘Pahari miniature paintings’. The paper upon which these drawings are executed is said to have been produced in Sialkot during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries when papermaking was an integral part of an overall regional economy correlated with other sectors such as agriculture and the textile industry. Although the term Sialkoti refers to identified papermills in Sialkot (now Pakistan), the paper from this region is yet to be subjected to a systematic study. This article therefore explores the paper(s) in question through macro- and microscopic observations of structure, pulp and fibres. The study of historical sources, complemented by the analysis of paper samples and fibre identification, has revealed that the pulp would have been prepared from a variety of manufactured products using different technologies, such as rags, cloth, mats, rope and other plant-based materials made from local bast fibres which, once tattered, were recycled to prepare the pulp. Microscopic study reveals that a variety of fibre combinations under different conditions and processing steps were used, in particular sunn hemp fibre (Crotalaria juncea L.), a plant species that has until now rarely been identified in historical paper. In addition, the presence of kenaf and jute fibres, as well as a significant quantity of cotton fibres, have also been demonstrated. To overcome the lack of comparative materials, our work was supported by a comparative study of several materials made from sunn hemp now held in the Ethnobotany Collection at Kew Gardens. Samples were taken from these materials and provided useful reference micrographs for the identification of the WML samples. The quality of the paper used by Pahari artists, as well as the raw materials available and their processing, are discussed in detail. Putting all the data, including technical and historical information into perspective, we conclude that the Pahari artists used a paper of inferior quality compared to other types of paper used for other purposes such as the creation of illuminated manuscripts in the Punjab plains. This study therefore provides useful analytical and material evidence that complements previous historical, technical and anthropological studies.

Characterization of Bio-Retted Kenaf (Hibiscus Cannabinus L.) Bast Fibre

The bio-retted kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) bast fibres offer significant advantages over synthetic fibre regarding their being lightweight, environmentally friendly, and cheap. During the characterization procedure, the chemical composition as well as the physical, thermal, mechanical, crystallinity, and morphological properties of bio-retted kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) bast fibre were assessed. The chemical composition analysis of the bioretted bast fibre of kenaf (H. cannabinus L.) revealed that it contained a significantly high proportion of cellulose (58.72%). While, in the tensile test, the bast fibre of bio-retted kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) exhibited an average tensile strength of 3876 ± 1122 MPa and modulus of elasticity of 577 ± 177 GPa. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis of the bio-retted kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) bast fibre revealed its crystalline size to be 19.65 nm and crystallinity index to be 68.62%. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) performed on the bast fibre of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) revealed that it maintains a thermal stability of 240°C. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) was employed to examine the fibre’s morphology. The fibre exhibited flaws and a smoothed surface, as determined by the morphological evaluation. The utilisation of bio-retted bast fibre derived from kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) as a reinforcing agent in applications involving elevated temperatures exhibited encouraging outcomes.

Correlative Investigation on Dielectric-Mechanical-Morphological Characteristic for Kenaf-Glass-Hybrid Fibers Reinforced Epoxy Composite

In recent years, there are many applications where synthetic fibers and natural fibers are used as reinforcing materials in composites, such as the automotive and aerospace industries, the medical industry, and the construction industry. While these hybrid fibers effectively enhance mechanical and electrical properties, research into electrical characteristics remains inadequate and is an ongoing endeavor. In this work, synthetic woven glass fibers and natural woven kenaf fibers were used to fabricate composite materials by vacuum infusion technique. The dielectric properties of three different substrates, glass fibers, kenaf fibers and glass/kenaf fibers reinforced epoxy composites were investigated at 0° orientation. The ENA Network Analyzer was used to measure dielectric properties in a wide microwave frequency range. The substrates were single-joint overlapped with an adhesive and then mechanically tested. The shear strength of the joint as a function of strain, was tested using a Shimadzu universal testing machine. Visual inspections were performed to determine the failure modes of the composites. The dielectric constant and loss factor of the glass fiber composite were the highest, while the kenaf fiber composite had the lowest value. When a small amount of glass fibers is incorporated into kenaf fibers, which is called a hybrid composite, the polarization increases and the mechanical strength also increases compared to the kenaf fiber composite. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the fractured tensile tests was performed to understand the nature of the interfaces between glass, kenaf and matrix. The kenaf/matrix interface was heterogeneous but exhibited voids, resulting in low dielectric properties and mechanical strength. By inserting a small amount of glass fibers, the hybrid with kenaf fibers improve the dielectric constant by 20.7% and the dielectric loss factor by 27% compared with the kenaf fiber composite. The results also show that the composites exhibit a correlation between the dielectric properties, tensile strength, and the morphological nature of the interfaces.

Kenaf/glass fiber‐reinforced polymer composites: Pioneering sustainable materials with enhanced mechanical and tribological properties

AbstractHybrid kenaf/glass fiber reinforced polymer composites have emerged as promising structural materials, garnering significant attention due to their unique blend of natural kenaf fibers and synthetic glass fibers. However, despite their potential, there remains a gap in the comprehensive understanding of their quasi‐static mechanical behavior, creep resistance, and fatigue performance. This paper addresses this gap by presenting recent advancements in studying these key properties of hybrid composites. Studies reveal that the combination of kenaf and glass fibers results in enhanced tensile, flexural, and impact strengths compared to individual fiber composites. Additionally, the hybridization offers improved creep resistance, with the glass fibers reinforcing the polymer matrix against deformation under sustained loads. Furthermore, investigations into fatigue properties demonstrate the resilience of hybrid composites to cyclic loading, contributing to prolonged service life in high‐stress environments. By elucidating the interplay between kenaf and glass fibers, this review underscores the potential of hybrid composites in various structural applications. The synergistic effects between natural and synthetic fibers offer a balance between sustainability, performance, and durability, making hybrid kenaf/glass fiber reinforced polymer composites a compelling choice for industries seeking lightweight, high‐performance materials in which aligns with the sustainable development goals (SDGs) especially on Goal 12.Highlights In composite engineering, combining glass and kenaf fibers could cut production costs, yield high‐performance materials, and promote green technology. Substituting part of the glass fiber with kenaf can enhance the strength‐to‐weight ratio and promote greater biodegradability in current synthetic composites. Quasi‐mechanical properties of hybrid kenaf/glass‐based composites was enhanced by optimal stacking sequences, filler addition, and fiber treatment. Failures due to fatigue and creep can be reduced by hybridizing kenaf/glass fiber composites can prevent in polymer composite due to enhance elastic modulus. Enhanced tribological performance of hybrid kenaf/glass‐based composites due to less damage in microstructure via good interlocking of kenaf and glass in matrix.

Kenaf: Opportunities for an Ancient Fiber Crop

Hibiscus cannabinus (kenaf) is an annual fiber crop grown in warm seasons and known for its remarkable productivity; it has been cultivated worldwide for thousands of years as a fiber source. While every part of the plant can be utilized for some purpose, its primary significance lies in the diverse applications of its cellulosic fiber. Kenaf features a blend of long bast and short core fibers, rendering it suitable for various industrial uses. Initially utilized for cordage and livestock feed, kenaf’s applications have expanded over the last century to encompass its utilization as paper pulp, biocomposites, textiles, biomass energy, seed oil, filtration aids, industrial absorbents, and even as a component of potting medium or as a potential source of medicine. Although traditionally a niche crop, the discovery of its diverse applications positions kenaf for rapid expansion in production in the upcoming decades. This article aims to explore the manifold applications of kenaf, highlighting those with the greatest future potential and discussing those that hold promise for commercial-level application with additional research.