[Ir(cod)2]BARF-Catalyzed C-H Bond Alkenylation and Alkylation of Ferrocenes

[Ir(cod)(2)]BARF [BARF = tetrakis(3,5-trifluoromethylphenyl)borate] catalyzed the directed alkenylation and alkylation of ferrocenes to form a variety of tri- and disubstituted ferrocenes. Mechanistic investigation revealed several putative intermediates along with the importance of COD (1,5-cyclooctadiene), as a diene ligand, and a possible catalyst deactivation pathway. On the basis of the mechanistic investigation, catalytic activity was further improved.