A powder derivative of acid pre-hydrolysis processing of cellulosic wastes,
known as cellulignin, was used as filler in resin matrix composites. The f
lexural mechanical properties of cellulignin-polyester, epoxy or urea-forma
ldehyde matrix composites was evaluated. The results obtained show that the
urea-formaldehyde and epoxy based composites can be used as alternative ma
terials for low cost and low strength applications. Their advantages over t
he common wooden agglomerates or composites are presented and are based on
the fact that cellulignin can be obtained virtually from any cellulosic was
te. (C) 2001 Kluwer Academic Publishers.