Physicochemical, Spectroscopic and Rheological Characterization of Anacardium occidentale gum Exudates
Nnabuk Okon Eddy *
Department of Chemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria and Department of Chemistry, Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaeden, Mkpat Enin, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Inemesit Udofia
Department of Chemistry, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Edward Okey
Department of Biological Sciences, Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Anduang O. Odiongenyi
Department of Chemistry, Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaeden, Mkpat Enin, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Patrick Udofia
Department of Science Technology, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Anacardium occidentale gum exudate was analyzed for physicochemical, spectroscopic and rheological characteristics. Physicochemical analysis revealed that the gum is mildly acidic, ionic, extremely rich in carbohydrate and calcium. GCMS spectrum revealed the presence of some carboxylic acids, ketone and alkanes. The FTIR spectrum of the gum closely resembled those of other polysaccharides. Scanning electron micrograph revealed the presence of pores containing particles with irregular shapes. The average value of intrinsic viscosity of the gum was 3.28 dL/g, which compared favourably with those obtained for some plant gums. From the Huggins, Kraemer and Power law models, it was deduced that there is absence of molecular association and that the conformation of the gum is more rod like. Viscosity of the studied gum was found to be greatly influenced by the presence of urea, K+, Ca2+ and Al2+. Anarcadium occidentale gum exhibited a non-Newtonian property with characteristics dilatant and shears thickening properties.
Keywords: Anarcadium occidentale L. gum, characterization, GCMS, SEM, FTIR and rheology