Recent advances in the synthesis of ferrocene derivatives via 3d transition metal-catalyzed C–H functionalization

Abstract

In recent years, transition-metal-catalyzed C–H functionalization has gradually developed into a powerful tool for the synthesis of ferrocenes in an atom- and step-economic fashion. However, despite significant achievements, the vast majority of these C–H functionalizations required precious 4d or 5d transition metal catalysts. The use of inexpensive and sustainable 3d metals in the C–H functionalization of ferrocenes remains challenging, especially the development of asymmetric versions. Herein, we summarize the remarkable recent progress in the synthesis of ferrocenes by 3d transition metal-catalyzed C–H activation until December 2021.