An ew class of C 2-symmetric, chiral cyclopentadienyl ligand based on planar chiral ferrocene backbone was developed. As eries of its corresponding rhodium(I), iridium(I), and ruthenium(II) complexes were prepared as well. In addition, the rhodium(I) complexes were evaluated in the asymmetricc atalytic intramolecular amidoarylation of olefin-tethered benzamides via CÀHa ctivation. Figure 1. Cp ligands studied in asymmetric CÀHa ctivationreactions.

Chiral cyclopentadienyl (Cp) rhodium(III) are powerful catalysts for achieving asymmetric C–H activation. This paper describes the design and synthesis of a new type of chiral Cp ligand bearing a chiral 3,3,3′,3′-tetramethyl-1,1′-spirobiindanyl backbone. It features convenient synthesis, easy modification, and relatively low cost. Moreover, it holds great potential in achieving asymmetric C–H activation as exemplified by four examples examined in this work.