Steam exploded biomass for the preparation of conventional and advanced biopolymer-based materials

Lignocellulosic materials treated by the steam explosion technique alone, or in the presence of chemical reagents, undergo remarkable modi®cations at the level of both the chemical composition and supramolecular structure, developing features suitable for the production of conventional and advanced materials with improved properties. Experience in the production of high yield pulps, compo- site materials with microbial (PHB) and synthetic (polypropylene) thermoplastic matrices and high modulus lignocellulosic ®bers is reported.