Analysis Application of Cellulose
by ionRocket-DART®-MS
Background
The biofuel and chemical production from lignocellulosic biomass is being studied due to the adverse effects of global warming and the depletion of fossil fuel resources. Cellulose is a type of lignocellulosic biomass, which is not consumed as food. Cellulose is a polysaccharide constructed with β-1,4 linked glucose molecules. It has many intermolecular and intramolecular hydrogen bonds, so it does not easily dissolve in water or organic solvents.
Sample
Cellulose Powder
Method
The analyzing tool utilized was the ionRocket heating system connected to the DART®-MS (Direct Analysis in Real Time – Mass Spectrometry). Small quantities of the samples were put on the POT and analyzed. The temperature was increased by 100ºC per minute, from 30ºC to 600ºC.
Result
The DART®-MS spectrum around 400ºC and the total ion current chromatogram of cellulose powder were shown in Figure 1. The cellulose powder was detected from 200ºC and the highest intensity was detected at around 400ºC. The monomer, dimer, and hydrate were detected. These results indicate that the ionRocket DART®-MS analysis can provide the structural information of cellulose.
Fig .1 Total ion chromatogram and DART®-MS spectrum around 400°C of cellulose powder. ionRocket: R.T. 100°C/min 600°C, DART®-SVP temperature: 400°C, ionization: DART® (+)
Target
Material Development / Chemical Industry / Foreign Material Analysis