Acylation of ω-phenylalkanoylferrocenes by cinnamoyl and phenylpropiolyl chlorides

Abstract

In Friedel-Crafts acylation of ω-phenylalkanoylferrocenes, the site of electrophilic attack depends on the reagent used. The acylation with cinnamoyl chloride yields preferentially the products of substitution of the unsubstituted cyclopentadienyl ring of ferrocene. The acylation with phenylpropionyl chloride affords the products of acylation of the benzene ring of the starting compound. The different behaviour of both acylating agents is discussed.