| Abstract: | Selectively C‐deuterated indigotins were synthesized from halogenated indigotins 1a – c as precursors. The described reactions – used already by the ancient purple dyers – allowed the introduction of D‐atoms at defined positions of the indigo molecule. The exchange of halogen atoms by D‐atoms was induced by UV irradiation of the leuco compounds 2a – c and 3a – c in D2O. The resulting leuco forms 4a – c were oxidized to the deuterated indigotins 5a – c . Some conclusions were drawn as to the kinetics of the reaction. The physical properties of the new compounds were determined. |
