CONVERSION OF STEROIDS TO TRIMETHYLSILYL DERIVATIVES FOR GAS PHASE ANALYTICAL STUDIES - REACTIONS OF SILYLATING REAGENTS

Methods for the conversion of human steroids to trimethylsilyl derivatives for gas-phase analytical studies have been investigated. Three useful conditions have been defined. These are (a) BSA at room temperature, (b) BSA:TMCS or BSTFA:TMCS at room temperature or at 60°C, and (c) TSIM:BSA:TMCS at 60-80°. Steroid hydroxyl groups may be classified as unhindered, moderately hindered, or highly hindered, on the basis of the conditions needed for derivative formation. Quantitative conversions to single products were observed in the instances that were studied. Ketone groups may yield enol TMSi ethers under catalyzed silylation conditions. This reaction may be avoided by using methoxime derivatives. © 1969.