TECHNOLOGY FOCUS - POLYMERS - Preferred Method: In preparing lignin from lignocellulosic biomass, the first temperature is 360-380 degrees C; the second temperature is at least 5 degrees C above the glass transition temperature of lignin at the second pressure. The second temperature is about 110-120 degrees C; and the third temperature is 20-100 degrees C. The first pressure is 220-250 bar; the second pressure is greater than atmospheric pressure, where the second pressure is 50-150 bar. The second pressure is atmospheric pressure. The method further comprises: recovering at least a portion of heat; permitting the insoluble lignin and the precipitated lignin to separate out by gravity; and separating the second solid fraction and the second liquid fraction, where the method is continuous. The method employs multiple pressure down valves and multiple heat exchangers. The lignocellulosic biomass is fractionated to remove at least a portion of C5 saccharides prior to the providing step. The average particle size of the insoluble lignin and precipitated lignin is less than 500 microns. Preferred Product: The lignin product is used as a fuel, tackifier, phenol formaldehyde resin extender in the manufacture of particle board and plywood, in the manufacture of molding compounds, urethane and epoxy resins, antioxidants, controlled-release agents, flow control agents, cement/concrete mixing, plasterboard production, oil drilling, general dispersion, tanning leather, road covering, vanillin production, dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl sulfoxide production, phenol substitute in phenolic resins incorporation into polyolefin blends, aromatic (phenol) monomers, additional miscellaneous monomers, carbon fibers, metal sequestration in solutions, basis of gel formation, polyurethane copolymer, and combinations. Preferred Composition: In the composition, the lignin has an average particle size which is less than 500 microns. The lignin has a heating value as measured by ASTM-D240 of at least 5,000 BTU/lb at 30% moisture content; at least 7,500 BTU/lb at 15% moisture content; and at least 8,000 BTU/lb at 5% moisture content. The composition is substantially free of organic solvent. EXAMPLE - No example given.