Abstract
Filtrates of spruce needles (Picea abies (L.) Karsten) have been analysed spectrophotometrically. The filtrates show u.v. absorption maxima in the wavelength range of 263 to 277 nm, which is caused by phenolic compounds present in the spruce needles. Special attention is paid to p-oxyacetophenone, both as an aglycon (λmax, 275 nm) and as the glycoside Picein (λmax, 263 nm). The position of the maximum of u.v. absorption depends on both seasonal and external influences (for example SO2) on the spruce needles. Comparison of the maxima of u.v. absorption for exposed and non-exposed needles during the summer reveals significant differences which can be used as an additional aid to diagnose gas damages by air pollutants.

This publication has 3 references indexed in Scilit: