Regioselective Polymerization of 1-Alkynes and Stereoselective Cyclopolymerization of α,ω-Heptadiynes

Abstract

Metathesis-based polymerizations of 1-alkynes and cyclopolymerizations of 1,6-heptadiynes using late transition metal catalysts are reviewed. Results obtained with both binary, ternary, and quaternary catalytic systems and well-defined molybdenum- and ruthenium-based catalysts are presented. Special consideration is given to advancements in catalyst design and mechanistic understanding that have been made in this area over the last few years; advancements that have facilitated tailor-made syntheses of poly(ene)s. In addition, the first supported ruthenium-based cyclopolymerization-active systems are summarized. Finally, selected structure-dependent properties will be outlined where applicable.