Activation of carboxylic acids by Burgess reagent: an efficient route to acyl ureas and amides

Carboxylic acids upon treatment with Burgess reagent are converted to novel mixed sulfocarboxy anhydrides. Subsequent treatment of such mixed anhydrides with amines at elevated temperatures yields acyl ureas and amides. The ratio of the two products appears to be temperature controlled. The method provides a simple and convenient route to diverse acyl ureas starting from carboxylic acids and amines.