Non-destructive determination of lignin syringyl/guaiacyl monomeric composition in native wood by Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy

The feasibility of using FT-Raman spectroscopy for rapid non-destructive determination of lignin syringyl/guaiacyl (S/G) monomeric composition was examined using Eucalyptus camaldulensis and E. globulus, including samples of various ages and colors, which are of importance as a plantation source. The application of 2nd derivatives transformation of Raman spectroscopic data revealed highly significant correlations between wet chemical and Raman predicted values with correlation coefficient (r) = 0.998 and standard error of prediction (SEP) < 0.07 points in the calibration (for known samples), and r = 0 935 and SEP < 0 32 points in the prediction (for unknown samples), respectively Consequently, this non-destructive method has proved its validity for analyzing Eucalyptus native wood meal samples, regardless of their age and color to determine lignin S/G monomeric composition. Using FT-Raman spectroscopy. elite tree selection based on quality aspects for pulp and paper production can be performed.