The availability of biomass feedstocks' as well as efficient and cost-effective processing technology, are key determinants of the economic viability of obtaining fuel additives and oxygenated chemicals from biomass. This series of papers examines biomass feedstock availability, and the impact of advances in hydrolysis and pretreatment methods on improving extents of conversion of cellulose to glucose. Significant progress has been made, but the economic impact of these advances will not be fully realized or documented until the first biomass conversion plants are built. In the meantime, these papers provide insights into the developments which enhance the prospects for implementation.