Covers the entire evolutionary spectrum of biomass, from its genetic modification and harvesting, to conversion technologies, life cycle analysis, and its value to the current global economy

This original textbook introduces readers to biomass--a renewable resource derived from forest, agriculture, and organic-based materials--which has attracted significant attention as a sustainable alternative to petrochemicals for large-scale production of fuels, materials, and chemicals. The current renaissance in the manipulation and uses of biomass has been so abrupt and focused, that very few educational textbooks actually cover these topics to any great extent. That's why this interdisciplinary text is a welcome resource for those seeking a better understanding of this new discipline. It combines the underpinning science of biomass with technology applications and sustainability considerations to provide a broad focus to its readers.

Introduction to Renewable Biomaterials: First Principles and Concepts consists of eight chapters on the following topics: fundamental biochemical & biotechnological principles; principles and methodologies controlling plant growth and silviculture; fundamental science and engineering considerations; critical considerations and strategies for harvesting; first principles of pretreatment; conversion technologies; characterization methods and techniques; and life cycle analysis. Each chapter includes a glossary of terms, two to three problem sets, and boxes to highlight novel discoveries and instruments. Chapters also offer questions for further consideration and suggestions for further reading.

• Developed from a successful USDA funded course, run by a partnership of three US universities: BioSUCEED - BioProducts Sustainability, a University Cooperative Center for Excellence in Education
• Covers the entire evolutionary spectrum of biomass, from genetic modification to life cycle analysis
• Presents the key chemistry, biology, technology, and sustainability aspects of biomaterials
• Edited by a highly regarded academic team, with extensive research and teaching experience in the field

Introduction to Renewable Biomaterials: First Principles and Concepts is an ideal text for advanced academics and industry professionals involved with biomass and renewable resources, bioenergy, biorefining, biotechnology, materials science, sustainable chemistry, chemical engineering, crop science and technology, agriculture.

About the Editors

Ali S. Ayoub, PhD is an internationally recognized expert in the biopolymer science and engineering field and has successfully developed groundbreaking inventions in areas relevant to polymeric materials and the biorefinery concept. He is a senior scientist in the chemical industry, as well as an adjunct professor and associate graduate faculty member at North Carolina State University. He is associated with the United States Department of Interior and symposiums related to natural polymers within the American Chemical Society.

Lucian A. Lucia, PhD is an Associate Professor in Forest Biomaterials and Chemistry, North Carolina State University and an honorary Professor of Green Chemistry at Qilu University of Technology (China). He was the Principle Investigator for the acclaimed BioSUCCEED educational/research framework (BioProducts Sustainability, a University Cooperative Center for Excellence in Education). He has been elected Fellow to a number of prestigious organizations and is co-Founder and co-Editor of the international journal BioResources.