Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and compositions for the uniform pretreatment of biomass within seconds with low inhibitor formation. The pretreatment process is used to convert biomass to a fuel, sugars, or other useful chemicals by subjecting the feedstock to a rapid retention time under pressure and temperature and/or chemical reactant. The system includes at least one high pressure, steam impermiable plug and a continuously-operating valve discharge apparatus to discharge pretreated feedstock while maintaining uniform pressure on the pretreatment system.

Abstract: An extruder and valve system comprises a conduit for conveying a biomass stream using a plurality of injector assemblies to provide water or other fluids and/or steam for pretreatment. Each injector in the assembly is connected to a corresponding port in the extruder. The ports can be positioned at discrete locations of the extruder or beyond to deliver the appropriate amount of fluid or steam for the processing of biomass or other materials.

Abstract: Provided are cost-effective methods and systems for producing a low molecular weight reactive lignin from a lignocellulosic biomass. The process is rapid and the reactive lignin is easily separated from carbohydrates and other components of the biomass at low cost. This clean lignin product has a very low molecular weight, good hydroxyl content, and low ash and sulfur, making it valuable to many applications.

Abstract: Provided is microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) from cellulosic or lignocellulosic biomass produced efficiently and quickly through cost-effective methods and systems. The MCC is comprised of short fibers due to the process through which the biomass is subjected. In addition to MCC, nanocellulose (CNF), and high quality crystalline nanocellulose (CNC) can be produced, as well as other cellulosic compounds, clean lignin and monomeric C5 and C6 sugars.

Abstract: Provided are cost-effective methods and systems for producing a low molecular weight reactive lignin from a lignocellulosic biomass. The process is rapid and the reactive lignin is easily separated from carbohydrates and other components of the biomass at low cost. This clean lignin product has a very low molecular weight, good hydroxyl content, and low ash and sulfur, making it valuable to many applications.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and compositions for the uniform pretreatment of biomass within seconds with low inhibitor formation. The pretreatment process is used to convert biomass to a fuel, sugars, or other useful chemicals by subjecting the feedstock to a rapid retention time under pressure and temperature and/or chemical reactant. The system includes at least one high pressure, steam impermiable plug and a continuously-operating valve discharge apparatus to discharge pretreated feedstock while maintaining uniform pressure on the pretreatment system.

Abstract: This disclosure provides polymer and film derivatives of specialized clean lignin with improved properties. This disclosure also provides methods of making polymer and film derivatives of specialized clean lignin with improved properties.

Abstract: This application provides a method of using a highly clarified and clean lignin, derived from a specific biorefinery process to make a starch foam and products of the same. The lignin can be used as a low cost filler substitute for starch and other substrates that are currently employed in foam applications. The lignin has the right mechanical, physical, thermoplastic and barrier properties to enable easy handling and to impart improved properties such as UV resistance, water resistance and other physical parameters to starch foams.

Abstract: Provided are methods, systems, and compositions for producing activated carbon from lignin residues produced from cellulosic or lignocellulosic biomass after hydrolysis of saccharides. The activated carbon is low in ash and sulfur, high in oxygen content and iodine number.