D-Glucose Monohydrate: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction

D-glucose monohydrate, commonly known as dextrose monohydrate, is a critical substance in both biological and chemical fields. It is a form of glucose that contains one molecule of water for hydration. This compound plays a pivotal role in various biochemical processes and industrial applications. This article delves into the properties, composition, uses, and storage methods of D-glucose monohydrate.

Figure 1 Characteristics of D-Glucose monohydrate

Properties

D-glucose monohydrate is a white, crystalline powder that is highly soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol. Its chemical formula is C6H12O6·H2O, and it has a molecular weight of 198.17 g/mol. The melting point of D-glucose monohydrate is approximately 83°C, and it decomposes before reaching its boiling point. This compound exhibits optical activity, rotating plane-polarized light to the right, which is why it is also referred to as dextrose.

In terms of its structural properties, D-Glucose monohydrate is a monosaccharide and an aldose. The D-configuration indicates the orientation of the hydroxyl group on the fifth carbon atom in the Fischer projection. The monohydrate form specifically signifies that it crystallizes with one molecule of water, affecting its physical properties and stability.

Composition

D-glucose monohydrate consists of one glucose molecule bonded to a water molecule. Glucose itself is a simple sugar and an essential carbohydrate in biology. It is a six-carbon aldose, meaning it has six carbon atoms and includes an aldehyde group. The presence of the water molecule in D-glucose monohydrate stabilizes the crystalline form of glucose, making it easier to handle and store in various industrial applications.

The compound is derived from starch through enzymatic hydrolysis, which breaks down the polysaccharides into simpler sugars. This process ensures the purity and quality of D-Glucose monohydrate, making it suitable for use in sensitive applications like pharmaceuticals and food products.

Uses

D-glucose monohydrate has a wide range of applications across different industries due to its versatility and biochemical significance. Some of its primary uses include:

Pharmaceuticals: It is widely used as an excipient in tablet formulations due to its excellent compressibility and binding properties. It is also used in intravenous fluids to provide a quick source of energy and to treat hypoglycemia.

Food Industry: As a sweetener, D-glucose monohydrate is used in confectionery, beverages, and baked goods. Its high solubility and non-hygroscopic nature make it ideal for these applications.

Biotechnology: In cell culture media, D-glucose monohydrate is a crucial component that provides energy for cellular processes. It is also used in fermentation processes to produce various biochemicals.

Clinical Nutrition: It is included in oral rehydration solutions and nutritional supplements, especially for patients who need a quick energy boost.

Chemical Synthesis: D-glucose monohydrate serves as a building block in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including amino acids, nucleotides, and other sugars.

Storage Methods

Proper storage of D-glucose monohydrate is essential to maintain its quality and effectiveness. Here are the recommended storage practices:

Temperature Control: D-glucose monohydrate should be stored in a cool, dry place. The ideal storage temperature is between 15°C and 25°C. Exposure to higher temperatures can cause the compound to degrade or clump together.

Moisture Protection: Being a hygroscopic substance, D-Glucose monohydrate can absorb moisture from the air, leading to caking or dissolution. It should be stored in airtight containers to prevent exposure to humidity.

Light Protection: While D-Glucose monohydrate is relatively stable, prolonged exposure to light can cause slight discoloration. It is best stored in opaque or amber-colored containers to minimize light exposure.

Handling Precautions: During handling, it is important to avoid contamination. Using clean, dry utensils and wearing appropriate protective equipment will help maintain the compound's purity.

Conclusion

D-glucose monohydrate is an indispensable compound in various scientific and industrial fields. Its unique properties, such as high solubility, stability, and biological relevance, make it a valuable substance for applications ranging from pharmaceuticals to food production. Understanding its properties, composition uses, and storage methods ensures its effective utilization and maintenance of quality in different settings. For professionals in the chemistry domain, D-Glucose monohydrate offers numerous possibilities for innovation and application, underscoring its significance in both research and industry.

Reference

[1] Liu H B, Zhang X C. Dehydration kinetics of D-glucose monohydrate studied using THz time-domain spectroscopy[J]. Chemical physics letters, 2006, 429(1-3): 229-233.

[2] Hough E, Neidle S, Rogers D, et al. The crystal structure of α-D-glucose monohydrate[J]. Acta Crystallographica Section B: Structural Crystallography and Crystal Chemistry, 1973, 29(2): 365-367.