New aspects in cationization of lignocellulose materials. III. Influence of delignification on reactivity and extractability of TMAHP–hemicelluloses

Beech sawdust samples with different lignin content were alkylated with 3‐chloro‐2‐hydroxypropyltrimethylammoniumchloride (CHMAC). The yields and the degree of subtitution of trimethylammonium‐2‐hydroxypropyl (TMAHP) samples were similar. Differences were found in extractability of hemicelluloses from this materials both with water and dilute alkali. To obtain the maximum yield of TMAHP–hemicelluloses (ca. 90% of the amount originally present), it is sufficient to remove about 50% of lignin. The lignin component does not influence the reactivity of hemicelluloses. The isolated hemicelluloses differ only in the distribution of functional groups and extractability.