NMR Methodologies in the Study of Polysaccharides

Application of NMR methodologies to investigate polysaccharidebased gels was reported. Mono- and bidimensional NMR techniques applied to liquid samples allows both the structural characterization of the native and chemically modified polysaccharide, the degree of derivatization of the polysaccharide can also be obtained. Solid state NMR permits the structural characterization of unsoluble and amorphous networks constituting the guest matrix of hydrogel and the assessing of the real degree of crosslink of these networks. 1H HR MAS spectroscopy allows the characterization of networks in their hydrate state, and the use of a gradient along the rotor spinning axis allows translational diffusion measurements in hydrogels. 1H pulsed low resolution NMR provides an insight into the dynamics of water molecules and their interaction with the polysaccharide network.