2.1.5 Alkene Metathesis Based Polymerization

AbstractAlkene metathesis based polymerizations that rely on metal complexes with N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands are discussed in this chapter. Particular emphasis is placed on novel polymer microstructures, architectures, and applications that have been enabled by NHC–metal complexes. Applications of ruthenium–NHC initiated ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) for the synthesis of block copolymers, branched polymers, stereocontrolled polymers, and cyclic polymers are described. Ruthenium–NHC catalyzed acyclic diene metathesis polymerization (ADMET) and cyclopolymerization are also discussed, along with alkene metathesis polymerizations using tungsten– and molybdenum–NHC complexes.