Ring-opening Metathesis Polymerization of Norbornene Catalyzed by Ru(II)-Vinylidene Complex

Abstract

Highly selective ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) of norbornene can be achieved using a new Ru(II)-vinylidene complex as catalyst precursor. The polymerization reaction proceeds in 1, 2-dichloroethane at 80 }o{C in absence of co-catalysts with high turnover frequencies. The molecular weight and molecular weight distribution of the polymers obtained indicate that different species are active in the catalytic process.