Cross-polarization magic-angle spinning molecular structure studies

It has been demonstrated that cross-polarization/magic-angle spinning (CP/MAS) NMR spectroscopy is the most powerful means available to characterize the structure and dynamics of inorganic polymers in the solid state [1], The most recent development of a variable-temperature (VT) spinner provided an indispensable means to study slow chemical exchange, molecular motion and phase transitions of inorganic polymers. 

Cellulose, which Is one of the most abundant organic substances found In nature, has been extensively studied by various techniques such as x-ray scattering, electron microscopy, IR and Raman spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy etc. However, the crystal structure and noncrystalline state are not yet solved for cotton, ramie, bacterial and valonla celluloses which can be easily obtained in pure form. Cross-polarization/magic angle spinning(CP/MAS) C NMR spectroscopy is a promising new method to study these unsolved problems of cellulose, because this method is very sensitive to local molecular conformations and dynamics. 

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