Harakeke or flax fibres are being used to create a new low-carbon composite material which is lighter and stronger than fibreglass.
The company behind the invention, KiwiFibre, says the harakeke fibres are combined with resins to create a versatile product that can be used nearly anywhere very strong plastics are needed: boats, aerospace, and motorsport.
Unlike fibreglass, this is recyclable. And the company says it wants to develop bio-resins using harakeke oil.
Co-founder of KiwiFibre William Murrell spoke to Māni Dunlop about the product.
