PYROLYSIS-GC-MS CHARACTERIZATION OF FORAGE MATERIALS

Pyrolysis-GC-MS pyrograms from a series of alfalfa preparations, a grass, an angiosperm wood, a cellulose, and an arabinoxylan were obtained under pyrolytic conditions optimal for aromatic components of plant cell walls. Approximately 130 pyrolytic fragments have been identified by a combination of mass spectral interpretation, comparison with literature data, and, where possible, confirmation with authentic compounds. Several new fragments not previously noted in pyrograms have been conclusively assigned including both guaiacyl- and syringylpropyne and a range of alcohols. Diagnostic peaks from arabinose and xylose components of forages were found, along with markers for protein. Pyrolysis-GC-MS was particularly valuable for screening and differentiating p-coumaric acid and ferulic acid derivatives in tissues.