The synthesis of benzo[k, I] thioxanthene-3,4-dicarboxylic acid-7,7-dioxide is described. Condensation of this heterocycle with amines, or oxidation of the corresponding imides of benzork, I] thioxanthene-3,4-dicarboxy/ic acid, affords a new range of dyes which colour syntheticpolymer fibres, esptxially polyester, in yellow shades of excellent fastness to light and sublimation.