Abstract: The present invention concerns a process for producing fibre composites. In particular, the invention provides a novel way of producing biodegradable composites comprising a hydrophobic polymer material and a reinforcing component of fibres derived from plant materials. Composite material produced by means of the present invention has improved strength properties and enhanced adhesion between the bifunctional fibre and the natural or synthetic polymer.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a process for modifying a lignocellulosic fibre material. In particular, the present invention gives new properties to the fibrous matrix of the material. This is achieved by producing fibrous products with modified properties by activating the fibres of the matrix with an oxidizing agent and attaching compounds to the activated fibre in order to incorporate desired, pre-selected properties in to the fibre matrix. The invention makes possible to produce novel kinds of fibrous materials having practically a large variety of properties. Examples of such properties include hydrophobic hydrophilic character.