Extraction and Application of Polysaccharide in Tamarind Seed

The extraction of polysaccharide from tamarind seeds and its rheological properties were studied.The polysaccharide, a pectin, was extracted from tamarind seeds with hot water, then precipitated by isopropanol, filtered, and dried.The resultant product was an odorless white powder with light brown shade and had a very good stability (such as resistance to heating, salts, and acids)and tackiness (a synergism with carbohydrate).The yield of the polysaccharide was about 66.8% and the viscosity of its 1.5% (w/w)aqueous solution was about 665 mPa·s.The water-tolerant ability of reconstituted tobacco was significantly improved after addition of the polysaccharide as an adhesive.