Synthesis and characterization of blue dextrans

Blue dextrans of varying molecular weights and dye ligand densities have been synthesized and characterized. Reaction conditions, particularly time and dye and base concentrations, have a significant effect on the reaction products. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) confirms the purity and narrow molecular weight distribution of the products. Blue dextrans are polyelectrolytes due to the ionic dye ligands, and this strongly influences their properties in aqueous solution. The intrinsic viscosity decreases with increasing solvent ionic strength.