The progress of the decrease in inorganic components of the pith with xylem of leafless raw stalk of Jute during water retting was studied.
1) The decrease in nitrogen content of the pith with xylem was remarkable until 15 days after the start of water retting to slow down thereafter. Calcium, phosphorus and potassium decreased markedly by 7-15 days to reduce the decrease rate thereafter. Magnesium, however, decreased linearly from 7 th day until the completion of water retting.
2) Approximately 30-40% the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and calcium each, 20% that of magnesium and 2% that of potassium existed in the pith with xylem at the start of water retting was observed to remain there at its completion.
3) The substances dissolver into water from the leafless raw stalk during water retting should be recovered within 7 days after the start of retting, if they are to be utilized.
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