| abstract |
A catalyzed synthesis of ascorbate 2-phosphorylated compounds is provided which gives both mono-and polyphosphorylated species in excellent yield using inexpensive, readily available reactants. The method involves forming a reaction mixture of an ascorbic acid reactant such as L-ascorbic acid and a metaphosphate phosphorylating agent (e.g., sodium trimetaphosphate), and carrying out the phosphorylation reaction in the presence of a catalyzing ion selected from the group consisiting of calcium, strontium and barium ion and mixtures thereof, while maintaining the pH of the reaction mixture at a level of from about 3-12. The synthesis is characterized by very short reaction times, preferably from about 15 minutes-2 hours, and moderate temperatures on the order of 18 DEG C.-25 DEG C. Preferably, the catalyzing ion is provided by addition of calcium, strontium or barium hydroxide to the reaction mixture, this serving to also elevate the pH of the system to the desired range. |