(120e) Determination of Degree of Polymerization of Cellulose Using MALDI-TOF with a Novel Ionic Liquid Matrix

Polysaccharides, such as cellulose, have been investigated as a source for production of renewable fuels and other carbon based materials. Characterizing cellulose, especially its degree of polymerization (DP), is an important step in evaluating its deconstruction to monomeric sugars or in its use for materials. Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectroscopy (MALDI-TOF) has been used to determine the degree of polymerization of many polymersandmore recently carbohydrates. The use of MALDI-TOF for cellulosic analytes has been difficult due to their insolubility in traditional matrix solutions. A new technique has been developed for MALDI-TOF, utilizing an ionic liquid matrix and solvent system.  This approach was used to determine DP in an excess of 200 for crystalline cellulose. The technique has potentially wide application in analysis of lignocellulosic substrates.