A new synthesis in the isoquinoline series is discussed: the reaction of appropriate benzamides and oxalyl chloride affords isoquinolinetriones along N-aroyloxamoyl chlorides. The solvent effect, the acid catalysis and the isomer distribution are accounted for. On the other hand 1-hydroxy-3-oxoisoindoline-1-carboxylates may be obtained by acid-catalyzed ring closure of N-aroyloxamates. Both cyclizations require an activating group.
