Cornell Hemp Webinar Series: Fiber Quality Analysis
Wayne Swink, USDA-ARS
March 20, 2024 | 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. (EST)
After joining the USDA in January 2023 as a Physical Science Technician, Wayne Swink became a key contributor to hemp fiber processing and analysis projects within the Cotton Quality and Innovation Research Unit (CQI) based in New Orleans. With a distinguished career spanning 20 years in the military, Wayne’s journey has led him to an uncommon intersection of aerospace engineering and environmental sustainability, culminating in a unique blend of skills and experiences.
A graduate with a Bachelor of Science in University Studies, Wayne continued his education with a graduate degree in Environmental Sustainability and Natural Resource Management from Texas Tech University. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding at Texas A&M University, Wayne dedicated two years to clinical trials research before joining the USDA in January 2023. During this time, he contributed his skills to studies addressing critical health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, COVID-19, and esophageal cancer.
Wayne collaborates with researchers from the Specialty Alternative Crops Grant, including the Plant Genetic Resources Unit (PGRU) and university researchers. He also actively engages with hemp researchers from USDA’s Gin Lab in Stoneville, MS, building a robust network of expertise to advance hemp fiber research.
Wayne’s commitment to sustainability, coupled with his academic and research background, positions him as a versatile and dynamic professional at the forefront of the exploration and advancement of hemp fiber technologies.
Unveiling the multifaceted realm of hemp fiber requires an understanding of its historical roots and contemporary applications across diverse industries such as textiles, construction, and automotive. The potential demand and market applications for hemp fiber necessitate an examination of the need for efficient and accurate analysis methods to identify properties for specific material purposes and establish quality classification systems for market valuation. The intricate processes of fiber extraction, from age-old retting methods to the mechanical techniques of decortication and bast fiber separation, significantly impact bast fiber quality. Challenges like genotype variability, environmental factors, harvesting and post-harvest treatments are important considerations affecting fiber quality as well. Parameters crucial to understanding hemp fiber quality, including yield determination, fiber length, diameter, fineness, and tensile strength, will determine the suitability for market applications. Various testing techniques, from microscopy to spectroscopy and mechanical testing, can provide critical insights and nuances in evaluating hemp fiber properties. Illustrated through a case study, Texas Tech University and USDA-ARS researchers are utilizing digital imaging technology to identify hemp fiber length and diameter, yielding promising results. Looking ahead, anticipation of technological advancements in testing and the seamless integration of hemp fibers into the raw material and bioproducts of emerging industries is paramount in bringing hemp fiber materials to market.
Registration required. Register now.
Registering once signs you up for the entire series.
Those who register will receive the Zoom link prior to each webinar.
Hemp Webinar Series Schedule
Subject to change
- Apr 3: Weed Management – Lynn Sosnoskie, Cornell University
- Apr 17: Agronomic Practices: Effect on Quality, Yield and Processing – Stefano Amaducci, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
- May 1: Feral Germplasm and Genetic Diversity – Shelby Ellison, University of Wisconsin
The webinars will take place from 1 to 2 p.m. EST via Zoom.
If you miss one of our sessions or want to watch a session again, you can find recordings on our 2024 Cornell Hemp Webinar YouTube playlist.