Abstract: A method for producing pulp by extracting hemicellulosic materials from lignocellulosic materials using water in an extraction stage, wherein the extraction stage is either a single extraction or a double extraction process; treating the lignocellulosic materials with an oxidizing agent in a treatment stage, wherein the treatment stage is selected from the group consisting of a second extraction process, an agent impregnation process, and a first pretreatment process; treating the lignocellulosic materials with a reducing agent in the treatment stage, wherein the treatment stage is selected from the group consisting of the second extraction process, the agent impregnation process, and a second pretreatment process; and then subjecting the lignocellulosic materials to a modified Kraft pulping process to produce pulp.

Abstract: This invention provides a process for propagation of mimosa (Albizia julibrissin) and utilization of this plant species as forage for livestock, in food plots for deer, as a source of raw material for pulp and paper production, production of composite materials, and as a source of biomass for production of bioenergy.

Abstract: A new class of composites results from a matrix of fibers, such as fibers of carbon, alumina, ceramics, and aluminosilicates, interwined in a network of fused metal fibers. The composites can be fabricated to have varying surface area, void volume, and pore size while maintaining high electrical conductivity. Composites are readily prepared from a preform of a dispersion of the metal fibers, other fibers, and an organic binder such as cellulose, by heating the preform at a temperature sufficient to fuse the metal fibers and to volatilize at least 90% of the binder. Where a carbon fiber is used, the metal fibers are fused at a temperature causing a loss of less than about 25%, and usually under 15%, by weight of carbon fiber.