Ratio of erythro and threo forms of β-O-4 structures in tension wood lignin

Abstract

The ratio of erythro and threo forms of β-O-4 structures in tension wood lignin was investigated by ozonation analysis of wood meal taken from various positions in the stem of yellow poplar ( Liriodendron tulipifera). The proportion of the erythro form was higher in tension wood than in opposite wood, and the methoxyl group content showed a similar trend. The proportion of the erythro form and the methoxyl group content in the 7 positions in the stem lignin was correlated (correlation coefficient R=0.98), suggesting that the type of aromatic ring, syringyl or guaiacyl, is one of the factors which stereochemically controls the ratio of erythro and threo forms of β-O-4 structures during lignin formation.