Solution properties of glycogen. 1. Dilute solutions

Dilute solutions of glycogen from mussels (shellfish) and of different degr adation steps were investigated by static and dynamic light scattering, vis cometry, and end group analysis of the reducing end. The data were analyzed in comparison with theory for hyperbranched polymers. In the monomer of th e A <(B1)(B2) type, the functional group B-2 (resulting in alpha(1, 6) link ages) has a much lower reactivity than that of the B-1 group (leading to al pha(1, 4) linkages and chain growth). Qualitative agreement in behavior was found with the nonfractionated samples, but the effective branching densit y, derived from the applied physical techniques, was found to be considerab ly lower than that known from chemical analysis. SEC fractionation in on-li ne combination with multiple-angle laser light scattering and a viscosity d etector revealed molar mass distributions that are composed of two main com ponents. These components differ in their physical properties. The required examination was possible because R-g and [eta] could be measured for each slice. Shrinking factors g = R-g(b)2/R-g(lin)2 and g' = [eta](b)/[eta](lin) were determined. The results of quantitative analysis are discussed in rel ation to current theories.