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The article reports on the use of pressurized chemical retting and nanoparticle impregnation to improve the performance of kenaf fibers used in glass fiber reinforcement in polymer-based composites. Surface hardness and modulus of elasticity are improved according to researchers at Mississippi State University. A description of the processes involved is presented. Support for kenaf fiber research come from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

The article focuses on a study which revealed that the seeds of Kenaf, a plant native to Africa and India, have promising anti-cancer properties.

Evaluates the plastic lumber TexDek polypropylene decking planks by Kenaf Industries. Use of kenaf plant fiber; Comparison of using kenaf with wood flour as additives; Compatibility of kenaf with polymer.

Cites the kenaf fibers being used by Ford Motor Corp. for automobile production. Automobile parts using the kenaf fibers; Strength of the material; Environmental advantages of kenaf; Processing of the kenaf plant; Automobile factories in Europe using kenaf fibers.

Reports that Enron Capital & Trade Resources Corp. has increased its credit available to kenaf developer Kafus Environmental Industries.

Reports on Vancouver, British Columbia-based Kafus Environmental Industries' plan to build a $125 million newsprint mill in Southern California that will be supplied by kenaf, a subtropical plant that can grow up to 12 feet in seven months.