Analysis of long chain sultones by thin layer chromatography

The separation and semiquantitative estimation of nine C₁₄ sultones by thin layer chromatography (TLC) on silica gel is reported. Vapor phase charring gives detection limits of several ppm in olefin sulfonate, ethoxylated alcohol sulfates, and formulated products. Isopropyl ether is the solvent of choice, and two-dimensional TLC with this and a chlorinated solvent mixture gives an exclusive sultone area, as well as added sensitivity. Simplified preparative TLC on plates with preadsorbent is described for confirmation by independent analytical methods.