Abstract: A modular process for organosolv fractionation of lignocellulosic feedstocks into component parts and further processing of said component parts into at least fuel-grade ethanol and four classes of lignin derivatives. The modular process comprises a first processing module configured for physico-chemically digesting lignocellulosic feedstocks with an organic solvent thereby producing a cellulosic solids fraction and a liquid fraction, a second processing module configured for producing at least a fuel-grade ethanol and a first class of novel lignin derivatives from the cellulosic solids fraction, a third processing module configured for separating a second class and a third class of lignin derivatives from the liquid fraction and further processing the liquid fraction to produce a distillate and a stillage, a fourth processing module configured for separating a fourth class of lignin derivatives from the stillage and further processing the stillage to produce a sugar syrup.

Abstract: An integrated process for the combined fermentation and the conversion of liquid and solid residues generated by the cane sugar industry into a variety of useful products. The process also relates to the treatment of other biomass materials. The process combines elements of alcohol-based organosolv pulping with fermentation in a fully integrated operation. This process eliminates the need for separate costly facilities, thus reducing capital and operating costs, providing opportunities for heat and energy reduction and a high degree of internal process recycle. The process would replace costly waste and residue treatment operations with revenue generating operations.