ASTM E3503-25

1.1 This test method covers the quantification of hemicellulose present in herbaceous biomass substrates using a dilute acid incubation period and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. This method can be utilized across a variety of substrates containing 1 % to 44 % hemicellulosic content.2

1.2 This method intends to provide carbohydrate analysis for evaluation of fermentation efficacy for various biomass saccharides associated with hemicellulose. Current fermentation technologies can convert arabinose, galactose, glucose, mannose, and xylose and will leave uronic acids and acetic acids unconverted, so they are not included in this assay. It should be noted that co-quantification of xylose, mannose, and galactose occurs. Additionally, glucose is simultaneously released from starch, cellulose, and hemicellulose during this assay and the source cannot be determined, so glucose is not quantified in this assay.

1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

4.1 This test method consists of a two-step acid hydrolysis prior to measurement of xylose, galactose, arabinose, and mannose by HPLC.

4.2 The hydrolysis conditions have been optimized to ensure maximum hemicellulose hydrolysis while minimizing degradation of the monosaccharides.