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Analysis of Fresh Sap Collected from Ryukyu Lacquer Tree
Rong Lu1, Takayuki Honda1, Meesook Sung2
1Department of Applied Chemistry, School of Science and Technology, Meiji University.
Summary
Okinawan lacquer, chemically similar to Vietnamese varieties, exhibits superior drying properties and laccase activity. Strontium isotope analysis confirms distinct geographical origins for Nago and Vietnamese lacquer.
Area of Science:
- Natural Products Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Isotope Geochemistry
Background:
- Lacquer sap, a natural resin, is utilized globally for its durable finish.
- Understanding the chemical composition and properties of lacquer is crucial for its application and provenance determination.
- Okinawan lacquer represents a potentially valuable resource with unique characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the chemical structure and properties of lacquer from Nago City, Okinawa.
- To compare Okinawan lacquer with Vietnamese lacquer in terms of composition, enzymatic activity, drying behavior, and origin.
- To establish a method for identifying lacquer provenance using strontium isotope ratios.
Main Methods:
- Gas chromatography/mass-spectrometry (GC/MS) for chemical component identification.
- Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy for structural elucidation.
- Laccase activity assays and drying time assessments (dust-free and hardened dry).
- Strontium isotope ratio (87Sr/86Sr) analysis for provenance.
Main Results:
- Nago lacquer is identified as laccol lacquer, with major components including 3-(heptadeca-10Z,13E,15E-trienyl)catechol and related compounds, similar to Vietnamese lacquer.
- Nago lacquer demonstrated higher laccase activity across a broader pH range (5-8) and better low-temperature adaptability.
- Nago lacquer achieved dust-free dry (DF) in 6 hours, significantly faster than Vietnamese lacquer, while both achieved hardened dry (HD) in 24 hours.
- The strontium isotope ratio (87Sr/86Sr) of Nago lacquer (0.7110) clearly distinguished it from Vietnamese lacquer (0.7450).
Conclusions:
- Okinawan lacquer possesses distinct chemical and physical properties, including enhanced drying capabilities and enzymatic activity, compared to Vietnamese lacquer.
- The chemical similarity in major components suggests a shared botanical origin or similar biosynthesis pathways.
- Strontium isotope ratio analysis provides a reliable method for differentiating the geographical provenance of lacquers.
