ANALYTICAL DATA FOR ACACIA-SENEGAL VAR. SENEGAL GUM SAMPLES COLLECTEDBETWEEN 1993 AND 1995 FROM SUDAN

Over 1500 authentic and commercial A. senegal var. senegal gum samples were analysed to evaluate existing quality control parameters and to assess the potential of new parameters such as pH, viscosity, viscosit y average molecular weight (Mv) equivalent weight and total uronic aci d content as additional qualifying indices. The data obtained indicate the following mean values: moisture (10.75%), ash (3.77%), nitrogen ( 0.328%), specific rotation (-31.3 degrees), pH (4.66), equivalent weig ht (1436) and total uronic acid content (13.71%). The results also ind icate wide variations in intrinsic viscosity and viscosity average mol ecular weight (mean values 16.4 ml g(-1) and 9.0x10(5), respectively. Accordingly these parameters, therefore, cannot be recommended as qual ifying indices. (C) 1998 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.