ABSTRACT
Lignocellulosics are three-dimensional, polymeric composites made up primarily of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin. In order to produce lignocellulosic-based engineering materials with a long service life, it is necessary to interfere with the natural degradation processes for as long as possible. In the case of lignocellulosics, cell wall polymers, extractives, and inorganics are the components that, if modified, would change the properties of the resource. There are several approaches to chemically modify the lignocellulosic cell wall polymers. In modifying a lignocellulosic for property improvement, there are several basic principles that must be considered in selecting a reagent and a reaction system. The chemical should be as noncorrosive as possible to eliminate the need for special stainless steel or glass-lined treatment equipment. If the glass transition temperature of the thermoplastic matrix is reduced through chemical modification, it is possible to plasticize the fiber allowing it to become more thermoformable through thermopressing, extrusion, or injection.
