Unprecedented formation of η(4)-(vinylketene)iron complexes from η(4)-(diene)iron complexes and aromatic compounds in the presence of a Lewis acid.

A novel and unprecedented formation of η(4)-(vinylketene)iron complexes from η(4)-(diene)iron complexes is described herein. Treatment of η(4)-(diene)iron complexes with a Lewis acid such as GaCl3 or AlCl3 in the presence of aromatic compounds under a CO atmosphere affords η(4)-(vinylketene)iron complexes via electrophilic aromatic substitution.