Sulfation, Sulfates, Sulfites, Thiosulfates and Sulfonates

A qualitative reaction for starch sulfates involves use of Toluidine Blue, which develops a blue color with starch and a violet color with starch sulfate.1725 1784 These esters can also be identified by IR absorption spectroscopy.1785 1786 

2-(Acrylamido)-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid is a useful reagent for the preparation of such compounds.1831 Side-chain substituted sulfones were prepared by reacting starch with corresponding vinyl sulfones. A basic catalyst is needed to perform these reactions in various solvents (such as diethyl ether, chloroform, benzene, and water).1757 

Additional information on the sulfation of starch has been reported by Whistler,1835 Graefe,1486 and by Tomasik and coworkers.1836 

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