Project Description
A good deal of practical knowledge was gained from this project; although, the initial objectives were found to be premature. It became obvious that the key elements for flax straw retting were neither well known nor easily discovered. The project was fortunate to have access to considerable expertise shared by Biolin Research Incorporated. Their advice helped circumvent a lot of testing to avoid several trials that would have failed. In hindsight, the trials should have first focused on the basic fundamentals of retting, which would have set a baseline of data. The search for a quicker retting process may have caused several trials to end prematurely. However, these trials did point out many pitfalls in the procedures tried. Most notably, high humidity could not maintain the straw moisture needed for retting. Also, any drying cycle stopped retting. If drying was not done quickly, it created an environment for detrimental mould growth.
It was learned that the flax straw had to be kept soaking wet and for quite a few days. The water used had to be pH neutral yet also could not be sterile or saline. The water appeared to be re-useable for retting.
No defined guidelines were developed for the condition of the flax prior to retting, but this could be a key area that requires further study. This and other factors may affect retting. It is known that once a conducive environment was established and maintained, that retting then appeared to be function of time. Little is known about if this time can be altered, which was one of the original objectives and remains a key factor in a rettery design.
The impact of this project is that it helps to better focus the key elements that need to be defined. One avenue of research needed is to determine the impact of factors on a now-established retting process cycle. This would include pre-conditioning flax straw, the effective range of water quality, the impact of external factors such as water temperature, exposure to light sources, and killing and preventing moulds. Another avenue of research needs to be done on utilization of water. For example, how much is needed, how long will water last for this purpose, and what can be done to extend its use? As well, what needs to be done to make the wastewater usable for other purposes or returnable to the environment? Finally, research could begin on the mechanics of a plant based upon safety requirements, water management (application and reuse), handling the flax straw within the plant, and effective drying procedures.
It is quite possible that to be viable any type of retting plant might have to be set up in conjunction with a companion industry. Once more is known about a plant’s needs and by-products, suitable companion industries could be investigated.
The impact of such a facility could benefit Saskatchewan as one of the major flax-producing areas. It is obvious that production requirements have been well
established. Making the production of flax more profitable through adding value to an otherwise difficult to dispose of residue would benefit the grower, provide a reasonably priced, and readily available feed stock that could be converted into a more valuable end product.
