As cannabis is being legalized and gaining recreational and medicinal use in more and more areas, it is also showing potential to transform the building sector. Another variety, Cannabis sativa, is a fast-growing, weed-like plant that flourishes in a wide range of climates and soil conditions. It can grow up to 15 feet with stalks an inch in diameter. For building purposes, it is the plant’s inner layer that gets combined with lime and water to be made into construction material.
One application is as an infill insulation. Another recently developed product with even greater promise is a large, lightweight (22 lbs.), structural interlocking block. Its dimensions are 8 inches high, 21 inches wide, and 11 inches thick. In appearance it looks like a giant Lego. Labor costs are reduced because the interlocking nubs and lesser weight make for fast assembly. When modification is required, it can be cut with woodworking tools. In addition to its high load-bearing capacity, it is highly resistant to fire, mold, and insect damage. It is considered almost soundproof. The only caveat to its use is it can’t be used for a foundation.
The green features of these prefab hemp composite blocks (developed by JustBioFiber Structural Solutions) are impressive: