Saccharic acid or D-glucaric acid is a dicarboxylic acid C6H10O8 derived from glucose or its derivatives by oxidation with nitric acid. Saccharic acid formed the salt with d-amphetamine. This salt is a component of Adderall as a long-lasting amphetamine (Study Candy).
The synthesis process proceeds according to Scheme 1
Starting reagents and materials
- 30 g D-glucose
- 80 ml nitric acid ~50%
- 80 ml distilled water
- 5+5 ml distilled water for washing crystals
- Beakers
- Heater with water bath
- Porous glass filters
- Vacuum pump
- Desiccator with alkali
Synthesis
80 ml of concentrated nitric acid (~50%) is placed in to a beaker. Fig 1
Fig 1
~50% nitric acid is diluted with water to 160 ml to a concentration of ~25-26% Fig 2
Fig 2
160 ml of diluted nitric acid is added to 30 g of glucose powder. Fig 3
Fig 3
The mixture is heated and carefully evaporated on a water bath. Nitrogen oxides are formed! (Toxic brown gas!) Fig 4
Fig 4
After the formation of nitrogen oxides ceases, RM evaporates to a syrupy consistency. Fig 5
Fig 5
The syrupy RM is left to crystallize in air or in a desiccator over alkali for several days. Fig 6
Fig 6
Over time, the RM may acquire a brown color, which is normal. Fig 7
Fig 7
The crystals are filtered out Fig 8
Fig 8
The crude crystals are transferred to a small porous filter Fig 9
Fig 9
With the vacuum on, rinse with water in a volume of no more than 5 ml. The acid is very soluble in all solvents. Fig 10
Fig 10
The crystals are dried in a desiccator over alkali. Fig 11
Fig 11
Yield is 2 g