FT-IR spectroscopic studies on degradation of lac resin - part I: thermal degradation

Studies the thermal degradation of lac resin by FT-IR spectroscopic techniques to determine functional group changes occurring in the degradative process. Compares FT-IR spectra of lac during different stages of thermal degradation; observes no indication of inter-esterification or dehydration from spectroscopic data, as proposed by earlier workers on the basis of wet chemical methods. Unequivocally concludes that inter-etherification (dioxolanation) and hydroperoxidation reactions are much more likely to occur during the thermal degradation process.