A fusion method for the preparation of steroid sulfates

A method for the preparation of steroid triethylammonium sulfates is outlined which involves the fusion of triethylamine-sulfur trioxide and steroids. Experimental details are presented which define the process as a thermal equilibrium resulting in the preferential sulfation of aliphatic hydroxyl groups. Sulfation of an aromatic hydroxyl group can be achieved in the absence of an aliphatic hydroxyl group. With excess reagent both types of hydroxyl groups in the same molecule can be sulfated.