In this work two fractions of D-xylan isolated from corn cobs were analyzed
by viscometry, using dimethyl sulphoxide and NaOH 4% aqueous solution as s
olvent. The polymers presented good stability in the alkaline medium, witho
ut indications of hydrolysis during the 15 h of study. A comparative study
of the viscometric behavior of the polymers as well the intrinsic viscositi
es and the Huggins constants was done, and related to the structure of the
polymers. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.