Cellobiose

Cellobiose is a disaccharide with the formula [HOCH2CHO(CHOH)3]2O. The molecule is derived from the condensation of two glucose molecules linked in a β(1→4) bond. It can be hydrolyzed by bacteria or cationic ion exchange resins to give glucose. Cellobiose has eight free alcohol (COH) groups and three ether linkages, which give rise to strong -inter- and intra-molecular hydrogen bonds

It can be obtained by enzymatic or acidic hydrolysis of cellulose and cellulose rich materials such as cotton, jute, or paper. Cellulose is a polymer of glucose units linked by β(1→4) bonds.

Treatment of cellulose with acetic anhydride and sulfuric acid, gives cellobiose tetraacetate, which cannot engage in hydrogen bonding and is soluble in nonpolar organic solvents.