The present study reports a simple and inexpensive method for improving the textural properties and stability of γ-alumina by adding crushed sugar cane bagasse to the synthesis gel (highly crystalline bayerite was used as an aluminum source). The influence of bagasse was evaluated by varying the biomass/bayerite ratio from 0.05 to 1 wt%. The presence of bagasse increased both surface area and pore volume up to 2.5-fold and 1.5-fold respectively. In addition, mesopores with a mean diameter of 5 nm were observed, which were further increased to 6 nm using hydrolyzed biomass prior to the synthesis. HRTEM measurements highlighted that the presence of biomass raised the formation of pores by enclosure of (111) and (002) lattice planes

The aim of this Concept article is to highlight different aspects of using biomass residues or extracted molecules in the synthesis of zeolites (mainly), aluminas and layered doubled hydroxides (LDHs). The strategies presented should serve as a basis for rationally preparing those aforementioned materials for catalytic purposes. Indeed, the presence of sugars, lignin, lignocellulosic biomass usually induces morphological/textural changes as well as (in some cases) modified chemical composition and surface properties.

The Cover shows an alternative route involving sugar cane‐derived biomass to produce zeolites with tailored properties.In their Concept, B. Louis et al. highlight the impact of the presence of sugars, lignin, biomass hydrolysates and biomass residues on the crystallization of various zeolite structures. The presence of those biosourced secondary templates (BSST) induces morphological/textural changes and, sometimes, modifications of the chemical composition and acidic properties. The BSST strategy may serve as a basis for the rational synthesis of heterogeneous catalysts. More information can be found in the Concept by B. Louis et al. on page 2065 in Issue 12, 2017 (DOI: 10.1002/cctc.201700062).