The Search for New-Generation Olefin Polymerization Catalysts: Life beyond Metallocenes.

Even late transition metal complexes function as active and selective catalysts for α-olefin polymerization. The discovery of a highly active family of catalysts 1 based on iron, a metal that had no previous track record in this field, has highlighted the possibilities for further new catalyst discoveries. As a result, an intense search has developed for new-generation catalysts, in both academic and industrial research laboratories. R1 =H, Me; R2 =Me, iPr; R3 =H, Me, iPr; R4 =H, Me; X=halide. © 1999 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH, Weinheim, Fed. Rep. of Germany.