Enzymatic determination of the cellulose content of atmospheric aerosols

A new analytical method for the quantitative determination of cellulose in aerosols was developed. For the first time cellulose can be successfully determined in atmospheric aerosols. This determination became possible by means of enzymes. It is not necessary to isolate the cellulose before determination. The test can be carried out without further purification steps. The analytical procedure is subdivided into three main steps: (1) an alkaline peroxide pretreatment to improve the enzymatic accessibility by removing parts of hcmicellulose and lignin; (2) enzymatic conversion of cellulose to D-glucose and (3) photometric detection of D-glucose. First measurements have shown that cellulose may be a main organic component in atmospheric aerosols.