High-impact sulfur compounds: constitutional and configurational assignment of sulfur-containing heterocycles

Chem Biodivers. 2008 Jun;5(6):1204-12. doi: 10.1002/cbdv.200890097.

Abstract

To unambiguously identify their structures and to evaluate their organoleptic properties, several constitutional und configurational isomers of dialkyl-tetrathianes and dialkyl-pentathiepanes were synthesized by two different synthetic protocols, and separated by preparative gas chromatography. Raman and NMR spectroscopy were used to differentiate between the constitutional 3,6-dialkyl-1,2,4,5-tetrathiane and the 4,6-dialkyl-1,2,3,5-tetrathiane isomers. Furthermore, cis- and trans-isomers of 3,6-dialkyl-1,2,4,5-tetrathianes were distinguished by temperature-dependent NMR experiments. Static, quantum-chemical simulations of the NMR spectra for these cis- and trans-isomers were calculated in the gas layer in order to confirm our experimental assignments. In addition, the assignment of 4,7-alkyl-1,2,3,5,6-pentathiepanes were deducted from their Raman spectra. Dialkyl-tetrathianes and dialkyl-pentathiepanes are interesting components to be used in flavor applications due to their unique olfactory impact and facets.

MeSH terms

  • Food Additives* / chemical synthesis
  • Food Additives* / chemistry
  • Heterocyclic Compounds* / chemical synthesis
  • Heterocyclic Compounds* / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Molecular Structure
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman
  • Stereoisomerism
  • Sulfur Compounds* / chemical synthesis
  • Sulfur Compounds* / chemistry
  • Taste* / drug effects

Substances

  • Food Additives
  • Heterocyclic Compounds
  • Sulfur Compounds