For over twenty years, we have been exploring the addition polymerization of phosphaalkenes, by analogy to the polymerization of olefins. We have demonstrated that phosphaalkenes may be polymerized using anionic and radical methods of initiation. Unlike the conventional addition polymerizaiton of olefins, the polymerization of MesP=CPh<sub>2</sub> predominantly undergoes an addition-isomerization mechanism whereby a C-H bond of the ortho-CH<sub>3</sub> of the Mes moiety is activated during propagation. This presentation will explore our latest findings involving activation of the P=C bond towards polymerization and other surprising reactivity. For instance, we have discovered a surprising metathesis of P=C bonds of various phosphaalkenes catalyzed by N-heterocyclic carbenes. In addition, our latest results in elucidating the complex mechanism of the anion-initiated polymerization of 1-phospha-isoprene as examined via model compound studies will be discussed.

Twists and turns in the reactivity of P=C Bonds: From molecules to metathesis to macromolecules

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.