Kinetics of the utilization of different C sources and the cellulose formation by <i>Acetobacter xylinum</i>

Abstract

Abstract Different methylated glucose derivatives and cellobiose were examined as the carbon sources for growth and cellulose formation by Acetobacter xylinum . HPLC studies were carried out to gain information about the kinetics of the utilization of the C sources used. The type and yields of the synthesized cellulose were described. Besides glucose, cellobiose was a substrate for the synthesis of this polysaccharide by the bacteria. Other methylated derivatives of glucose were not accepted for a comparable synthesis of this polymer. An estimation of citrate in an unmodified culture liquid (SH medium) showed utilization in a late phase of cultivation. The influence of this organic acid on the pH value, cellulose synthesis and growth is described. By the application of citric acid as a sole carbon source “gel‐like” forms of cellulose were formed generally.