Catalytic hydrogenolysis of saccharides : Part I. Qualitative and quantitative methods for the identification and determination of the reaction products

The numerous, chemical reactions (hydrolysis, cracking, hydrogenation), occurring during the catalytic hydrogenolysis of saccharides, result in a ulticomponent mixture, consisting mainly of polyhydric alcohols. These alcohols, in general, have high boiling points and a poor thermostability. Separation of the individual components by high-vacuum distillation requires a relatively high temperature that causes dehydration, condensation, and charring. Qualitative paper chromatographic and quantitative gas-liquid chromatographic methods of analysis have therefore been developed; these provide useful tools for further studies on reaction mechanisms and reaction kinetics of the hydrogenolysis of saccharides.