Compound Celluloses 135 



be concentrated by evaporation, and on then pouring into 

 water, the product is precipitated in yellow flocks. On washing, 

 and drying at 100, and analysing, it gives the following 

 results : 



Calc. C 19 H, 8 Cl 4 u, 



C 42-82 .... 42-85 



H 3-40 .... 3-38 



Cl 26-83 .... 26-69 



The product, obtained as above described from various 

 specimens of fibre, has been repeatedly analysed. It has been 

 analysed after fractional precipitation from solution in glacial 

 acetic acid ; also, after, then again exposing for a long period to 

 an atmosphere of chlorine gas, followed by suitable purification, 

 and always with results in close concordance with the above. 

 It is evident, therefore, that we are dealing with a complex of 

 a definite character. This complex is the lignin of earlier 

 observers, but which, in recognition of its ketonic characteristics, 

 is better termed lignone. From the fibre-substance exposed 

 to the action of dilute sulphuric acid (5 p.ct. H 2 SO 4 ) for some 

 hours at 60-80 previously to chlorination, a derivative is 

 obtained, having identical characteristics and composition. 

 This further confirms the definite character of the lignone 

 complex, and the resistance of its constituent groups to hydro- 

 lytic actions. 



The chlorination of the lignocellulose evidently resolves in 

 great measure the union of the lignone to the cellulose residue, 

 as the lignone chloride is largely dissolved away by exhaustive 

 treatment with simple solvents. The residue of chloride which 

 ultimately resists the solvent action gives the characteristic 

 reaction with sodium sulphite, and is probably therefore the 

 same product. The splitting off of the chloride is evidently a 

 secondary result, no doubt an effect of hydrolysis. It is to be 

 noted that the presence of water is essential tc the reaction ; 



