Functionized Polyolefins Prepared by Borane Approach

Abstract

Despite commercial success, the inert nature of polyolefins significantly limits their end uses, particularly, those in which adhesion or compatibility with other materials is paramount. Unfortunately, there is only very limited success in the functionalization of polyolefins by the existing processes. Polyolefins are mainly prepared by Ziegler-Natta polymerization, such catalysts are normally incapable of incorporating functional group-containing monomers because of catalyst poisonings¹. On the other hand, post-polymerization processes suffer from other problems, such as the degradation² of polymer backbone. It is clear that there is a fundamental need to develop new chemistry which can address the challenge of preparing functionalized polyolefins, especially polypropylene and poly(1-butene) with controllable molecular weight and functional group concentration.