Hydrothermal carbonization of various lignocellulosics: Fuel characteristics of hydrochars and surface characteristics of activated hydrochars.

•Hydrochars from lignocellulosics were obtained (200 °C, 90 min) and characterized.•Lignocellulosic biomass type was the key factor on hydrochar yield and structure.•HTC enhanced the fuel properties (high C%, heating value, and ignition temperature).•Activated carbons from hydrochars were obtained (with KOH, 600 °C) and defined.•The type of biomass directly affected the porosity of the activated hydrochar.