Abstract: This invention relates to a process of treating a lignocellulosic material to produce bio-ethanol. The process includes the steps of: (a) exposing the lignocellulosic material to conditions including a pH not less than about 8, and steam at a first pressure, to produce a step (a) product; (b) explosively discharging the step (a) product to a second pressure less than the first pressure to produce a step (b) product; and (c) further processing the step (b) product to produce bio-ethanol and other co-products. In another embodiment, the invention relates to a conical auger fractionation column. The fractionation column includes a column body having an input and an output. A conical filter is positioned inside the column body, the filter having a larger diameter end directed toward the input and a smaller diameter end directed toward the output.

Abstract: This invention relates to a process of treating a lignocellulosic material to produce bio-ethanol. The process includes the steps of: (a) exposing the ligno-cellulosic material to conditions including a pH not less than about 8, and steam at a first pressure, to produce a step (a) product; (b) explosively discharging the step (a) product to a second pressure less than the first pressure-to produce a step (b) product; and (c) further processing the step (b) product to produce bio-ethanol and other co-products. In another embodiment, the invention relates to a conical auger fractionation column. The fractionation column includes a column body having an input and an output. A conical filter is positioned inside the column body, the filter having a larger diameter end directed toward the input and a smaller diameter end directed toward the output.