H. A. Potts, A. H. Wood, C. Cook
Jun 1, 1972
Citations
0
Influential Citations
5
Citations
Journal
Journal of Applied Chemistry and Biotechnology
Abstract
N-Benzoylleucomethylene blue in benzene, toluene, xylene or petroleum ether when applied to either attapulgus clay or silica gel slowly decomposes to give a blue dye which has always been assumed to be methylene blue. Factors affecting the reaction have been examined and it is suggested that a photon-induced free radical reaction is operating. Initial products of the reaction are colourless mono-, di- and trimethyl derivatives of N-benzoylleucothionine and a mixture of methylene blue and mono-, di and trimethylthiazines. Irradiation of the colourless products gives further quantities of both methylene blue and demethylated products. The irradiation of methylene blue on silica gel gives a mixture of demethylated products but the decomposition is more extensive and the fully demethylated thiazine, thionine is also present in the reaction mixture.