[EG919]

Dear all,

I have a question concerning the formation of imids. Is there a good way go transform an ester R'C(O)OR into a symmetrical imid of the formula R'C(O)NHC(O)R'? The method I could come up with is transformation the carbamate from the ester first, reduction to the amine and then coupling with another equivalent of ester... However, this way to do it seems lengthy to me and I was wondering if anyone knows a more direct approach.

Additionally, does anyone know any good ammonia surrogates to introduce amines besides azides?

Thank you for any answers! 

Best,

EG919