Antibacterial 3-(arylamino)-1-ferrocenylpropan-1-ones: Synthesis, spectral, electrochemical and structural characterization

► Michael addition of arylamines to acryloylferrocene in good to excellent yields. ► Proceeds in 5 min under microwave irradiation and solvent-free conditions. ► Employs a cheap and environmentally friendly catalyst (montmorillonite K-10). ► Full spectral and electrochemical characterization of 14 new synthesized compounds. ► Broad-spectrum effect on Gram (−) and (+) bacteria and especially against S. aureus.