Effect of alkaline and autohydrolysis processes on the purity of obtained hemicelluloses from corn stalks

► Hemicelluloses were extracted from corn stalks using autohydrolysis and alkaline processes. ► Optimal extraction conditions for maximum solubilization of hemicelluloses with minor undesirable compounds were determined. ► Lignin removal from hydrolysate was studied as purification step. ► Hemicellulose obtained by alkaline extraction showed the best physicochemical properties and higher yield.