1,6-Anhydro-β-D-giucopyranose was identified for the first time in aqueous solutions obtained by hydrothermolysis of cellulosic matter. The identification and quantitative determination of the 1,6-anhydro-β-D-glucopyranose, as well as of further degradation and conversion products, was accomplished by means of HPLC. For kinetic studies, 1,6-anhydro-β-D-glucopyranose was degraded in aqueous solution under hydrothermal conditions in the range of 200-240°C. A kinetic model covering both formation and decomposition of 1,6-anhydro-β-D-glucopyranose is proposed.