Characterization of a polymer is essential for determining its suitability for a particular purpose. Thermochemical properties of\ncashew gum (CSG) extracted fromexudates of Anacardium occidentale L. and khaya gum (KYG) extracted fromexudates of Khaya\nsenegalensis were determined and compared with those of acacia gum BP (ACG). The polymers were subjected to different thermal\nand chemical analyses. Exudates of CSG contained higher amount of hydrophilic polymer.The pH of 2% w/v gum dispersions was\nin the order KYG < CSG < ACG. Calcium was the predominant ion in CSG while potassium was predominant in KYG. The FTIR\nspectra of CSG and KYG were similar and slightly different from that of ACG. Acacia and khaya gums exhibited the same thermal\nbehaviour which is different from that of CSG. X-ray diffraction revealed that the three gums are the same type of polymer, the\nmajor difference being the concentration of metal ions.This work suggests the application of cashew gum for formulation of basic\nand oxidizable drugs while using khaya gum for acidic drugs.
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