Condensation of acyl chloride on sodium cyanate : preparation of acyl isocyanates

The catalytic effects of various metal halides and solvents on the reaction of benzoyl chloride with sodium cyanate were studied. It has been found that SnCl₄, and ZnCl₂. catalyze the reaction to give the corresponding acyl isocyanates in good yields. The scope of the reaction was studied and a number of aroyl isocyanates and their derivatives were prepared. A few non aromatic isocyanates and their derivatives were also prepared.