Lignocellulose Characterization and Exploitation

Lignocellulosic materials are mainly formed by cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose. However, the percentages of these compounds are very variable and may have different characteristics. These materials can be transformed through different processes and are mainly applied as adsorbents, biogas, fertilizers, and catalysts. For this, it is necessary to characterize these materials to understand their structures and compositions better, allowing directing their best application. Thus, in this chapter, aspects about the composition of these materials and the main characterization techniques used (X-ray diffractometry and fluorescence, thermal analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and microscopy) will be discussed, as well as the main ways of exploring these materials, resulting in sustainable products.