a multi - function process is described for the separation of cellulose fibers from the other constituents of lignocellulosic biomass such as found in trees , grasses , agricultural waste , and waste paper with application in the preparation of feedstocks for use in the manufacture of paper , plastics , ethanol , and other chemicals . this process minimizes waste disposal problems since it uses only steam , water , and oxygen at elevated temperature in the range of 180 ° c . to 240 ° c . for 1 to 10 minutes plus a small amount of chemical reagents to maintain ph in the range 8 to 13 . an energy recuperation function is important to the economic viability of the process .