| abstract |
The present invention relates to a method of fractionating lignocellulosic biomass into at least one cellulose rich solid fraction and at least one liquid fraction, wherein an alkaline agent and water are added to the biomass to form a mixture and the biomass is contacted in the mixture with an oxidizing agent until most of the lignin is solubilised to produce a solid fraction comprising a cellulosic material having a reduced content of lignin and a liquid fraction comprising dissolved lignin. The method of invention is particularly useful for processing and pre-treating lignocellulose containing biomass e.g. for the production of chemicals and for other non- fibrous applications. |