Chitin is the second most abundant natural polymer in the world after cellulose, mainly derived from the food waste of shrimp and crabs. Chitosan is the most important derivative of chitin. Thanks to their biodegradability, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, bioactivity, and versatile chemical and physical properties, chitin and chitosan derivatives are used in a wide variety of applications, including water treatment, cosmetics and toiletries, food and beverages, healthcare/medical, and agrochemicals. Chitin and Chitosans in the Bioeconomy covers all major aspects of chitin and chitosan, including structure, biosynthesis, biodegradation, properties of chitin and derivatives, applications, and market. It offers a special focus on the bioeconomy, which is the renewable segment of the circular economy. Describes the structure, biosynthesis, and biodegradation of chitin and chitosan Covers chitin- and chitosan-based products Details valorization of these materials Presents information on shell biorefineries Chitin and Chitosans in the Bioeconomy serves as a reference for polymer scientists and engineers and is also accessible to economists and advanced students.

Starch is the most widespread and abundant reserve carbohydrate in plants and is unique in that it can be used for the production of food, materials in bio-based products, and energy. Starch in the Bioeconomy covers the structure, biosynthesis, biodegradation, properties, and applications of starch in the context of the bioeconomy. The book Describes the present state of cognition of the starch granule Discusses physicochemical aspects and digestibility Considers physical, chemical, and biochemical processes to yield a variety of starch substrates Examines starch-based products including bioethanol, plastics, and composites and their use in various sectors including food, materials and energy Covers the valorization of starch as a pillar of the bioeconomy The book is aimed at researchers and industry professionals focused on the development of starch science, technology, and economics. Built on a reliable and well-documented base of information, the book presents the paths that remain to be taken to decipher this still mysterious resource that has contributed so much to the rise of humanity.

Biomass is the physical basis of the bioeconomy, the renewable segment of the circular economy, and as a CO2-neutral part of the carbon cycle, biomass is an efficient carbon sink. Demand for biomass is increasing worldwide because of its advantages in replacing fossil-based materials and fuels, which presents the challenge of reconciling this increased demand with the sustainable management of ecosystems, including forests and crops. This reference book discusses the role of biomass in the bioeconomy and focuses on the European Union and the United States, the first two regions to develop a bioeconomy strategy with an obvious effect on the bioeconomy developments in the rest of the world. Significant developments in other areas of the world are addressed. Features: Provides strategies for optimal use of biomass in the bioeconomy Defines and details sources, production, and chemical composition of biomass Describes conversion, uses, and sustainability of biomass Biomass in the Bioeconomy: Focus on the EU and US will appeal to an interdisciplinary audience of readers working in the fields of chemical and environmental engineering.

Hemicelluloses and Lignin in Biorefineries provides an understanding of lignocellulosic biomass, which is mainly composed of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin. It promotes the valorization of these molecules in the context of the bioeconomy and presents hemicelluloses and lignin, which are generated in lignocellulosic biorefineries, as the molecules of the future. The viability of these molecules lies in their renewability and potential. This book covers all aspects of hemicelluloses and lignin including structure, biosynthesis, extraction, biodegradation, and conversion. The book also looks ahead to the socioeconomic and environmental value of biobased industry and emphasizes an understanding of the potential of lignocellulosic biomass.

Hemicelluloses and Lignin in Biorefineries provides an understanding of lignocellulosic biomass, which is mainly composed of cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin. It promotes the valorization of these molecules in the context of the bioeconomy and presents hemicelluloses and lignin, which are generated in lignocellulosic biorefineries, as the molecules of the future. The viability of these molecules lies in their renewability and potential. This book covers all aspects of hemicelluloses and lignin including structure, biosynthesis, extraction, biodegradation, and conversion. The book also looks ahead to the socioeconomic and environmental value of biobased industry and emphasizes an understanding of the potential of lignocellulosic biomass.