Iron complexes with ω-alkenyl substituted bis(arylimino)pyridine ligands as catalyst precursors for the oligomerization and polymerization of ethylene

A series of 15 iron complexes with ω-alkenyl functionalized bis(arylimino)pyridine ligands was synthesized and characterized. After activation with methylalumoxane (MAO), these catalysts oligomerize or polymerize ethylene to give highly linear products. Their potential for self-immobilization during the polymerization process was investigated. The product composition and the molecular weights of the polyethylenes were analyzed and compared with the values resulting from analogously alkyl substituted bis(arylimino)pyridine iron complexes.

Graphical abstractA series of 15 iron complexes with ω-alkenyl functionalized bis(arylimino)pyridine ligands was synthesized and characterized. After activation with methylalumoxane (MAO), these catalysts oligomerize or polymerize ethylene to give highly linear products. Their potential for self-immobilization during the polymerization process was investigated. Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide