Researchers unveiled Thailand's first bulletproof vests made from hemp.

Scientists led by Professors Phanomkorn Kwah and Sutha Loi Duean Chai from the Khon Kaen University provided dozens of protoype vests for police to test in Khon Kaen province on January 13.

Video shows the officers shooting at the hemp plates at a firing range to assess their durability. The bullets were found to have slightly dented but not penetrated the armour.

Professor Phanomkorn, a member of Khon Kaen University's chemical engineering department, said: 'Hemp fibers are quite tough but are brittle. When mixed with plastic resin, they create a material with strength comparable to steel. The material also allows for better force distribution compared to traditional armour.'

Chemical engineering lecturer Sutha Loi Duean Chai said: 'The team initially explored using cannabis but shifted to hemp due to legal concerns. This new vest is seen as a significant step forward in providing more affordable, locally produced protective gear for law enforcement.'

The researchers said the vests were lightweight, compact, and can be carried like backpacks making them suitable for undercover operations.

Each vest cost 8,000 baht (190 GBP). Dozens of them were donated to police taking part in high-risk operations in the country's northeast region.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Surat Wanthamat, deputy superintendent of investigation at the Tha Phra Police Station, said: 'The vest offers better protection against bullet impacts and helps reduce the risk of injury from additional shots, enhancing the safety of police officers in high-risk situations.'

Hemp is one of the fastest-growing plants, capable of reaching maturity in around four months. It also requires minimal water, pesticide, and can thrive in a variety of climates and soils, making it highly efficient for cultivation.