Name of Material
It's one of Aotearoa’s most abundant natural plants, and is an important part of Maori heritage, and a key part of our history. It proved to be a strong and versatile material for plaiting and weaving cloaks, clothes, mats, kete and tools.
Harakeke fibre compares very well to other fibres typically used in the natural composites industry, and even to a number of synthetic materials. The application potential is endless...
Harakeke is also so much more than just fibre, but also produces gel, oil and seed for various industries.
HOW STRONG
Pretty strong. Harakeke has been used in rope form for centuries, whether this be guiding Waka around the Pacific, or being exported to Europe, the natural strength of harakeke has been proven. This makes it perfect for natural fibre composites.
MATERIAL
Our material is made from South Island harakeke flax milled in Riverton, New Zealand. Harakeke has not been used commercially for over 30 years, so we are rebuilding the supply chain in a sustainable way that acknowledges the cultural significance of harakeke
OVERVIEW
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
Tensile
Strength
900 MPa
Young's
Modulus
32 GPA