The xylan fraction of Beech wood was analysed by Curie point pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Chlorinated methoxyphenols were detected among the pyrolysis products. These compounds are released from chlorolignin residues present in the xylan preparation. The chlorination must have occurred during delignification of the holocellulose with sodium chlorite.

doi.org/10.1080/02773818708085262
J. Wood Chem. Technol.

Pouwels, A. D. A. J., & Boon, J. J. (1987). Analysis of lignin and chlorolignin residues in a beech xylan fraction by pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry. J. Wood Chem. Technol., 7, 197–213. doi:10.1080/02773818708085262