Factors Influencing the Course of the Macrocyclization of α,ω‐Diamines with Esters of α,ω‐Dicarboxylic Acids

Abstract The efficient synthesis of eight new macrocyclic amides (lactams) via reaction of diesters with diamines under normal dilution conditions is described. The role of intermolecular H‐bond formation and steric hindrance is discussed based on 1 H‐ and 15 N‐NMR studies of appropriate model compounds. Principles for the optimal choice of esters that can be efficiently transformed into diamides have been developed.