Abstract: The invention relates to a method of preparing sub-micron biocarbon materials using biomass that is chemically modified with organic or inorganic agents including but not limited to acrylamide, glycine, urea, glycerol, bio-glycerol, corn syrup, succinic acid, and sodium bicarbonate. The use of foaming and heating methodologies which could be either pre or post carbonization and subsequent particle size reduction methodologies for the creation of cost-competitive sub-micron biocarbon particles and fibers for a variety of applications.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of preparing sub-micron biocarbon materials using biomass that is chemically modified with organic or inorganic agents including but not limited to acrylamide, glycine, urea, glycerol, bio-glycerol, corn syrup, succinic acid, and sodium bicarbonate. The use of foaming and heating methodologies which could be either pre or post carbonization and subsequent particle size reduction methodologies for the creation of cost-competitive sub-micron biocarbon particles and fibers for a variety of applications.

Abstract: A biodegradable composite including: (a) a polymeric matrix having a biodegradable polymer; (b) a filler; and (c) an anhydride grafted compatibilizer including one or more biodegradable polymers modified with an anhydride group. The composite may also include (d) polymer additives such as polymer chain extenders or plasticizers. An in situ method of manufacturing the biodegradable composite of the present invention, including the steps of: (a) melting one or more biodegradable polymers in the presence of a functional monomer and a free radical initiator to form a mixture; and (b) adding a filler and polymer additives to the mixture thereby manufacturing the biodegradable composite.

Abstract: Composites containing one or more synthetic plastics, such as thermoplastics, one or more natural materials, such as plant/tree fibers, and biochar and/or torrefied material are described herein. The composite can contain additional additives, such as reinforcing agents and/or fibers, compatibilizers, etc. The composites have improved mechanical and/or physical properties, such as strength, impact strength, rigidity/modulus, heat deflection temperature, moldability/melt flow index, renewability, and lower cost compared to composites that do not contain the biochar and/or torrefied material. The presence of the biochar and/or torrefied material also serves to remove the odor often associated with natural fibers and other additives.

Abstract: Composites containing one or more synthetic plastics, such as thermoplastics, one or more natural materials, such as plant/tree fibers, and biochar and/or torrefied material are described herein. The composite can contain additional additives, such as reinforcing agents and/or fibers, compatibilizers, etc. The composites have improved mechanical and/or physical properties, such as strength, impact strength, rigidity/modulus, heat deflection temperature, moldability/melt flow index, renewability, and lower cost compared to composites that do not contain the biochar and/or torrefied material. The presence of the biochar and/or torrefied material also serves to remove the odor often associated with natural fibers and other additives.