Cellulose (C₆H₁₀O₅) is found in trees, and has many industrial uses. It is used to make pulp for the production of paper. The pulp is run through a series of rollers which gradually dries and straightens the fibers. To make high quality paper a glue like substance called lignin is removed, leaving mostly the fiber.

Fibers of carbon made from heated organic materials are placed in plastics to reinforce and make them stronger. This carbon fiber reinforced plastic, also known as CFRP, is stronger and lighter in weight than normal plastics. Originally carbon fiber plastics were used in aircrafts, but now they are used in making sports equipment such as golf clubs.

Carbon atoms that are formed into chain, in which fluorine atoms are attached make a compound that does not react easily with other compounds. This compound has long been used to coat pots and pans to keep food to sticking to them.