(η4-benzylideneacetone)Fe(CO)3

The organometallic compound (benzylideneacetone)iron tricarbonyl is a reagent for transferring the Fe(CO)3 unit to other organic molecules. This red-colored compound is commonly abbreviated (bda)Fe(CO)3. It is prepared by the reaction of Fe2(CO)9 with benzylideneacetone, typically in refluxing diethyl ether. The compound is characterized by IR bands at 2065, 2005, and 1985 cm−1 (cyclohexane solution).