Physico-chemical nature of ramie at different stages of growth

摘要

The physico-chemical nature of ramie at different stages of crop growth has been studied by infrared spectroscopy and also by biochemical estimation of gums and pectins. From IR study, the pectin has been found to be maximum for 40 days old ramie whereas the gums (mainly hemicellulose) have been found to be maximum for 70 days old ramie. The biochemical estimation of gum and pectin contents supports the results of IR study. The ramie plant can be harvested for efficient degumming after 70 days due to high formation of cellulose and less formation of pectin.