Book excerpt: Industrial Biorefineries and White Biotechnology provides a comprehensive look at the increasing focus on developing the processes and technologies needed for the conversion of biomass to liquid and gaseous fuels and chemicals, in particular, the development of low-cost technologies. During the last 3-4 years, there have been scientific and technological developments in the area; this book represents the most updated information and technological perspective on the topic. - Provides information on the most advanced and innovative pretreatment processes and technologies for biomass - Covers information on lignocellulosic and algal biomass to work on the principles of biorefinery - Provides information on integration of processes for the pretreatment of biomass - Designed as a textbook for both graduate students and researchers