Selective Insertion Polymerization

Significance

High activity catalysts that react with select functionality in the presence of what would nominally seem like a much more reactive group can enable the synthesis of novel materials and streamline other syntheses. Insertion polymerization of alkenes is generally only rapid with highly reactive catalysts that are easily poisoned by other functionality. This report demonstrates the generation of a highly reactive catalyst that is compatible with sulfonyl fluoride groups. The ability to synthesize high molecular weight polymers with high uniformity in their molecular weight reveals the excellent selectivity.