One‐Step Preparation of [RuCp*(η6‐arene)]+ Sandwich Complexes

In a single step, several variously functionalized [RuCp*(η6‐arene)]+ sandwich complexes have been prepared starting from RuCl3·xH2O in yields ranging from 35 to 80%, referring to ruthenium. The protocol covers the preparation of valuable [RuCp*]+‐complexed amino acids. In comparative experiments starting from the oligomer [RuCp*Cl2]n and using methanol/methanolate as the reducing agent, the formation of undesired side products was observed, resulting from nucleophilic substitution at the o‐chloroanisole complex and from methoxylation of the Cp* ligand. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2003)