REQUIREMENTS FOR HARVESTING OIL FLAX FOR FURTHER FIBER PROCESSING

Abstract

In modern conditions, with the growing demand for environmentally friendly materials and renewable resources, oil flax is gaining particular importance as a promising raw material for fiber production in Ukraine. Although its primary purpose is seed production for oil extraction, the plant’s stems contain valuable fiber widely used in the textile, paper, and biotechnology industries. Utilizing the stems of this crop opens up significant economic and agro-technological opportunities: it increases the profitability of agricultural enterprises, promotes the mechanization of the harvesting process, and ensures the rational use of resources. Moreover, flax fiber has a high level of environmental safety, as it is fully biodegradable, requires minimal water consumption, and depends less on chemical treatments, making it more environmentally friendly compared to other natural fibers. Scientific studies conducted in recent years have focused on improving oil flax harvesting and primary processing methods. In particular, it has been established that using desiccation at the yellow ripeness stage helps reduce harvest losses and improve raw material quality. The application of a separate harvesting method combined with modern specialized equipment has proven effective in regions with challenging climatic conditions, ensuring the preservation of stem mass for further quality processing. Another promising optimization approach is the secondary use of flax straw for biofuel production or eco-friendly composite materials, contributing to the concept of zero-waste production. The research aims to develop optimal methods for harvesting and initial processing of oil flax to obtain high-quality fiber. The study considers the key agro-technical, technological, economic, and environmental aspects of this process and offers recommendations for improving the efficiency of mechanized harvesting, minimizing harvest losses, and enhancing postharvest preparation. Implementing innovative approaches in this field will contribute to increasing the profitability of flax cultivation, ensuring its competitiveness in the international market, and fostering an environmentally responsible production cycle.