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Flash pyrolysis of the outer cortical tissues in Lower Devonian Psilophyton dawsonii

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Geoffrey AbbottORCiD

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Abstract

Coalified residues of the xylem and peripheral structure tissues (stereome) from permineralized (CaCO3) Lower Devonian Psilophyton dawsonii have been analysed by flash pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Both yielded C-0-C-1 alkylphenols, C-1-C-3 alkylbenzenes, C-0-C-1 alkylnaphthalenes, although with varying relative abundances. The stereome also generated a series of n-alk-1-enes and n-alkanes (C-8-C-24, maximum at C-10) which is believed to be derived from the cuticle. The sources of the aromatic compounds are discussed, and while it is concluded that those in the xylem are dern;ed from lignin, the macromolecule having been degraded by diagenesis and thermal maturation, the molecular sources of those from the stereome may also include a wide range of substances including simple phenolic acids, flavonoids and non-lignin polyphenolics. Possible functions for the stereome are discussed. (C) 1997 The Linnean Society of London.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Edwards D, Ewbank G, Abbott GD

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Unknown

Journal: Botanical Journal of The Linnean Society

Year: 1997

Volume: 124

Issue: 4

Pages: 345-360

ISSN (print): 0024-4074

ISSN (electronic): 1095-8339

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1006/bojl.1997.0101

DOI: 10.1006/bojl.1997.0101

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