2 replies to this topic

[Kalidas]

Has anyone used hempcrete to create Formicariums? If so is there a place to buy full blocks or just the mix? Also did it work pretty well?

I find the idea to be pretty neat. It's a natural source that uses plant fiber(hemp) mixed with limestone to make a tough yet lightweight material. I imagine the fact it's made of plant matter it probably holds onto moisture VERY well, it's non toxic, eco friendly, and it has great venitilation.

Edited by Kalidas, October 31 2018 - 8:27 AM.

[drtrmiller]

I don't claim to have any practical knowledge of the material.  But a quick search suggests that lime accounts for a significant amount of the material composition, which would make it off limits for direct contact with ants.  Lime, or calcium hydroxide, is alkaline to the point of being slightly caustic, and the composite material referred to as "hempcrete" even advertises pest resistance as a feature, likely for this reason.

 

p.s. There is a big difference between lime and limestone. Limestone is used in the manufacture of lime.  The resources I found called for the use of lime, not limestone.

Edited by drtrmiller, October 31 2018 - 12:27 PM.

[Kalidas]

Well I know lime and limestone aren't the same. But I didn't see that hempcrete was made mostly of lime, hemp, and limestone. All I saw was hemp and limestone. But oh wow thanks for that info, I will look more into it, but if pest control is a high selling feature it would be bad for ants

Edited by Kalidas, November 1 2018 - 9:09 PM.