Hemicellulose

Name:
Hemicellulose
Detailed information:
Cellulose having a degree of polymerization of 150 or less. A collective term for α and γ cellulose. It is that portion of holocellulose that is soluble in mild caustic solution. The pure form is obtained from corn grain hulls. It is not an important component of cellulosic products and is of chiefly theoretical interest. Hemicellulose obtained by treating a mixture of hard and softwoods with steam has been used as an animal feed supplement.