Biological Fundamentals for the Biotechnology of Lignocellulose

Abstract

The wide variety of natural cellulosic materials has complex and uneven components. Cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin comprise the main composition of cell walls of plants and are important components of natural lignocellulosic materials. Cellulose molecules determine the cell wall framework, and pectin is located between the cellulose microfilaments of the cell wall. In addition, cellulosic materials contain rich cell wall protein, pigment, and ash. Understanding of the chemical composition and structure of natural lignocellulosic materials, characteristics of each component, and interrelationships between various components would contribute to the research and development regarding natural cellulose materials. This chapter mainly describes the chemical composition and structure of natural cellulosic materials.