Manganese complexes with different ligand environments in the polymerization of methyl methacrylate and styrene

Abstract

Polymerization of methyl methacrylate and styrene in the presence of manganese cyclopentadienylcarbonyl complexes containing π-alkene (methyl methacrylate), vinylidene, and allenylidene ligands was investigated. It was found that metal complex ligand environment plays a key role in the initiation of the polymerization and in the regulation of the molecular weight characteristics of synthesized polymers. In particular, the manganese complexes with cumulenylidene ligands are capable to initiate spontaneously polymerization of vinyl monomers. The process of polymerization proceeds to high conversions (over 90%), and the resulting polymers are characterized by high values of molecular weight and relatively broad molecular weight distribution.