#$%^&*AU2013205685C120160211.pdf#####H:\nntwoen\NRPorbl\DCC\RR\572483I.DOC-12/04/203 Abstract A product is provided comprising at least one densified biomass particulate having a substantially smooth, non-flakey outer surface and containing no added binder, wherein said densified biomass particulate is comprised of a plurality of 5 pretreated lignin-coated plant biomass fibers which contain a trace amount of base from pretreatment of said fibers. Methods for using and making the product are also described. 10