Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 19, 2026

Quantitative Analysis by Thermogravimetry-Mass Spectrum Analysis for Reactions with Evolved Gases
Published on: October 29, 2018
Exploring the Reaction Mechanisms of Fast Pyrolysis of Xylan Model Compounds via Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Quantum
Abstract:
A commercial fast pyrolysis probe coupled with a high-resolution tandem mass spectrometer was employed to identify the initial reactions and products of fast pyrolysis of xylobiose and xylotriose, model compounds of xylans. Fragmentation of the reducing end by loss of an ethenediol molecule via ring-opening and retro-aldol condensation was found to be the dominant pyrolysis pathway for xylobiose, and the structure of the product-β-d-xylopyranosylglyceraldehyde-was identified by comparing collision-activated dissociation of the ionized product and an ionized authentic compound. This intermediate can undergo further decomposition via the loss of formaldehyde to form β-d-xylopyranosylglycolaldehyde. In addition, the mechanisms of reactions leading to the loss of a water molecule or dissociation of the glycosidic linkages were explored computationally. These reactions are proposed to occur via pinacol ring contraction and/or Maccoll elimination mechanisms.
More Related Videos
07:24Combustion Chemistry of Fuels: Quantitative Speciation Data Obtained from an Atmospheric High-temperature Flow Reactor with Coupled Molecular-beam Mass Spectrometer
Published on: February 19, 2018
11:44Qualitative Characterization of the Aqueous Fraction from Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Algae Using 2D Gas Chromatography with Time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry
Published on: March 6, 2016
Related Concept Videos
Mass Spectrometry: Molecular Fragmentation Overview
One type of fragmentation pattern is the cleavage of a single bond in the molecular ion. The cleavage leads to a radical and a cation. The cleavage can occur at...
Mass Spectrometry: Aromatic Compound Fragmentation
E1 Reaction: Kinetics and Mechanism
Electrophilic Addition of HX to 1,3-Butadiene: Thermodynamic vs Kinetic Control
E2 Reaction: Kinetics and Mechanism