Micro-chemical reactions.—With iodine various, from blue to yellow. With aniline sulphate, slight yellow.
General chemical characteristics.—Pecto-cellulose (with some ligno-cellulose).
The following are the results of analysis of the raw fibre (H. Müller):—
| Cellulose | 80·01 |
|---|---|
| Fat and wax | ·55 |
| Aqueous extract | 2·82 |
| Pectous substances | 6·41 |
| Water | 9·60 |
| Ash | 0·61 |
This fibre, exported from India and the Sunda Islands, has found employment in Spain and Portugal, but up to the present has not been adopted to any extent in other parts of Europe.
CHINA GRASS, RHEA, RAMIE.
FIG. 8.
Microscopic characteristics.—Irregular in form and length; often conspicuous in respect of latter (see Table, p. [39]); fibre sometimes cylindrical, either smooth or striated, sometimes flattened; central canal well developed, often containing granules; extremities of fibres rounded, spatulated or lance-shaped. Sections marked by numerous concentric layers, often showing radiating striæ.
Micro-chemical reaction.—Blue to violet, with iodine solution.