Granular structure and allomorph position in C-type Chinese yam starch granule revealed by SEM, 13C CP/MAS NMR and XRD

The crystalline microstructure and polymorphism of C-type starch from Chinese yam were evaluated by scanning electron microscope (SEM), 13C cross-polarization magic-angle spinning NMR (13C CP/MAS NMR) and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique and acid hydrolysis method. Morphological changes during acid hydrolysis showed that the amorphous or the less crystalline areas were essentially located at the center part of C-type starch granules whereas the semi-crystalline and amorphous growth rings were found mainly in the outer part of the granules. 13C CP/MAS NMR and XRD results revealed that B-type allomorph was hydrolyzed more rapidly than A-type one. The amorphous or less crystalline areas were predominantly composed of B-allomorph whereas the outer semi-crystalline and amorphous growth rings were mostly composed of A-type allomorph. The A- and B-type allomorph coexisted in the individual C-type starch granule. B-type allomorph basically existed at the center part of the granules which was surrounded by the A-type allomorph in the peripheral part of granules.