What is lignin?

The term "lignin" originated from the Latin lignum,that means "wood". So what is it? This is the name of a complex polymer compound that exists in nature. It is contained in the cells of terrestrial plant vessels, and only polysaccharides overtake it among high molecular weight natural compounds.

Lignin is an amorphous substance thatdetermines the lignification of parts of plants. In coniferous rocks, its content can reach 40 percent with respect to the total mass. Less than it in deciduous tree species - up to 25 percent.

If we turn to the structure of lignin, we learn,that the molecule of the compound includes atoms of elements such as carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Lignin is poorly soluble in aqueous media and organic solvents. Because of this, its properties reduce the water permeability of cell walls in plants.

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