Copper bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionate) catalyzed synthesis of N-substituted ferrocenes

An efficient catalytic protocol for the Ulmann-type coupling reaction of both bromo and iodoferrocene with heterocyclic amines using a stable and well defined copper bis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionate) complex has been developed. The protocol was applicable for the synthesis of wide variety of N-substituted ferrocenes and the desired products were obtained in good to excellent yields.