I am attempting to perform an Anthrone protocol for carbohydrate determination. The first step is to prepare anthrone reagent by dissolving anthrone powder in sulphuric acid (70%) to a final concentration of 1.42 g/L. This is supposed to dissolve and result in a yellow solution. However, when I attempt this, the solution remains clear and the anthrone crystals/flakes do not dissolve. Does anyone have any suggestions for how to correct this?
Dear Sam Sturiale sorry to see that your very interesting technical question has not yet received any expert answers. As a synthetic inorganic chemist I never used this particular reagent, but at least I know what anthrone looks like...😎 There seem to be misleading data in the literature. Some protocols describe solutions in 72% sulfuric acid, while others mention concentrated sulfuric acid. "Concentrated sulfuric acid" normally means the commercially available 98% H2SO4. I assume that the problem in your case is the relatively high water content of ca. 30%. Anthrone is insoluble in water, so that solubility in 70% sulfuric acid will be very slow or even insufficient. Please find attached a protocol which describes the preparation of a solution of anthrone in concentrated sulfuric acid.
Good luck with your work and best wishes, Frank Edelmann
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