Douglas-FIR Bark. II. Isolation and Characterization of A Glucomannan

Authors

  • E. C. Fernandez
  • Murray L. Laver

Keywords:

Douglas-fir bark, hemicellulose, glucomannan, holocellulose

Abstract

A glucomannan has been isolated from the holocellulose fraction of the inner bark of Douglas-fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco], and its structure and physical constants have been determined. The molar ratio of o-mannose, d-glucose, and d-galactose was 2:1:0.3. The glucomannan was completely methylated and hydrolyzed. Gas-liquid chromatographic and mass spectrometric analyses showed the presence of 2,3,4,6-tetra-, 2,3,6-tri-, and 2,3-di-O-methyl-d-glucopyranose, 2,3,6-tri- and 2,3-di-O-methyl-d-mannopyranose, and 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-methyl-d-galactopyranose. The proposed glucomannan structure consists of a linear chain of β-d-(1 → 4)-linked mannose and glucose units with α-d-(1 → 6)-linked galactose as intermittent, single-unit branches. The structural and physical properties of this glucomannan place it within the alkali-soluble family of polysaccharides known to be contained in the wood of all gymnosperms.

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Published

2007-06-28

Issue

Number 3 / July 1986

Section

Research Contributions

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