Hemp Retting Theory

The Retting Theory

For Hemp Stalks to be processed, the individual fibers and the woody core of the stalk have to be seperated. To facilitate this mechanical separation a natural process of retting needs to occur. This process utilizes microbes, moisture and heat for the glue like substance called pectin to be broken down. For high quality source materials, precise retting is necessary to facilitate the effective separation of the long fibres, short fibers and shives from the hemp stalk. Using the properties of moisture and air, air can not only be ried but also be humidified. This process can occur naturally, as you might notice when you imagine a desert climate compared to a tropical climate. With our installations this process can be controlled. 

Addition of moisture and microbes

By increasing the temperature of air, capacity for adsorbing moisture is created because of the increased energy in the air. Introducing moisture to the airflow allows the air to be humidified. It is key to not create mist in the installation, but actual moist air that is forced through the product. This allows the moisturized air to pass the hemp stalks and increase the moisture content to optimal conditions for retting. 

With the addition of a precise selection of microbes to the water that is adsorbed by the airflow, all hemp stalks are equally moisturized by spore container water. These spores develop within the hemp stalks under the optimal conditions we create and control. Consuming the pectin holding the stalk together. Once retting is completed, the hemp stalk is dried till the desired moisture content for decortication/scutching. 

How to ret efficiently?

To ret the hemp stalk to the desired decomposition state, we have developed three products based on our knowledge of drying techniques and environmental control.

Working Process

Our hemp drying process is a seamless journey designed to deliver optimal results for your hemp crop. Here’s a brief overview of the three essential steps: