Difference between revisions of "Manila Hemp"

From Cargo Handbook - the world's largest cargo transport guidelines website
 
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==Risk factors==
 
==Risk factors==
 
Since Manila hemp is highly oxygen-absorbent, a life-threatening shortage of oxygen may arise in the hold or container. Thus, before anybody enters the hold, it must be ventilated and, if necessary, a gas measurement carried out. The TLV for CO<sub>2</sub> concentration is 0.49 vol.%.<br><br>
 
Since Manila hemp is highly oxygen-absorbent, a life-threatening shortage of oxygen may arise in the hold or container. Thus, before anybody enters the hold, it must be ventilated and, if necessary, a gas measurement carried out. The TLV for CO<sub>2</sub> concentration is 0.49 vol.%.<br><br>
If loosely packed and if in [[contact]] with grease, or oil, could be liable to spontaneous combustion. <br><br>
+
If loosely packed and if in contact with grease, or oil, could be liable to spontaneous combustion. <br><br>
 
Hazard: IMDG Class 4.1 (Flammable solid)<br><br>
 
Hazard: IMDG Class 4.1 (Flammable solid)<br><br>
  
 
[[Category: Products]][[Category: Other organic material]]
 
[[Category: Products]][[Category: Other organic material]]

Latest revision as of 13:24, 6 June 2019

Infobox on Manila Hemp
Example of Manila Hemp
Abaca, Google, abaca-baled.jpg
Facts
Origin
  • Philippines, Ecuador and Costa Rica
  • Asia: Philippines (primary country of cultivation), Indonesia
  • America: Central America
  • Australia
Stowage factor (in m3/t)
  • 2,5-3,0 m3/t
  • 90-110 ft3/t
Humidity / moisture Relative humidity 55%
Water content 5 - 10%
Maximum equilibrium moisture content 55%
Oil content -
Ventilation Air exchange rate: 10-20 changes/hour (airing)
Risk factors Hazard IMDG Class 4.1 (Flammable Solids)

Manila Hemp

Description

Strong vegetable fiber from a tree of the banana family, shipped in high-density bales mainly in freight containers. Used in the manufacture of specialty papers and, to a limited extent, cordage.

The plant is of great economic importance, being harvested for its fibre, once generally called Manila hemp, extracted from the trunk or pseudostem. On average, the plant grows about 12 feet (4 meters) tall. The fiber was originally used for making twines and ropes; now most abacá is pulped and used in a variety of specialized paper products including tea bags, filter paper and banknotes. It is classified as a hard fiber, along with coir, henequin and sisal.

It can be used to make handcrafts like bags, carpets, clothing and furniture. Abacá rope is very durable, flexible and resistant to salt water damage, allowing its use in hawsers, ship's lines and fishing nets. Abacá fiber was once used primarily for rope, but this application is now of minor significance. Lupis is the finest quality of abacá. Sinamay is woven chiefly from abacá.

Shipment / Storage

Manila hemp behaves strongly hygroscopically (hygroscopicity). It must be protected from sea, rain and condensation water and also from high levels of relative humidity, if discoloration and mustiness are to be avoided.

Manila hemp may increase its water content to 30% without feeling damp. For this reason, moisture levels should be measured when a consignment is accepted. Moisture-damaged bales must not be accepted.

Water damaged fiber requires drying and reprocessing. It does not lose strength when wet with fresh water.

Risk factors

Since Manila hemp is highly oxygen-absorbent, a life-threatening shortage of oxygen may arise in the hold or container. Thus, before anybody enters the hold, it must be ventilated and, if necessary, a gas measurement carried out. The TLV for CO2 concentration is 0.49 vol.%.

If loosely packed and if in contact with grease, or oil, could be liable to spontaneous combustion.

Hazard: IMDG Class 4.1 (Flammable solid)