Studies on Methylation of Anomeric Hydroxyl Groups Under Phase‐Transfer Catalysed Conditions

Reaction derivatives of monosaccharides possessing a free anomeric hydroxyl group with methyl sulfate under phase‐transfer catalysed conditions is described. Under phase‐transfer conditions, which permit equilibrium control, the proportions of α ‐ to β ‐glycosides are determined by the relative acidity of anomers. In the presence of alcohols the proportions of α to β ‐D‐gluco‐ and galactopyranosides have been shifted in favor of the equatorial anomer.