The conversion of cellulose and cellulosic waste to fermentable sugars has been successfully demonstrated. Using a novel microwave intensified hydrothermal depolymerisation of cellulosic materials in liquid hot water, at pressures below 300 psi, conversions of up to 40% of fermentable sugars were obtained with limited by-product formation. A high selectivity for glucose over other sugars has been observed. Temperature is the crucial parameter as limited conversion is observed below 180 degrees C and optimum conversion is attained around 220 degrees C. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.