1. Nickel-Catalyzed Polymerizations: Mechanistic Studies & New Reaction Development
Anne J. McNeil
Department of Chemistry and Macromolecular Science and Engineering Program
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Conjugated polymers (CPs) are the active components of numerous emerging technologies, including photovoltaics, PLEDs, and sensors.
We are using a combination of rate and spectroscopic studies to elucidate the mechanism of polymerization so it can be generalized to a wider variety of substrates and applied to the synthesis of new polymer microstructures.
Key Results from First Year of Funding
Conjugated Polymers
Traditionally CPs are synthesized via step-growth methods. Chain-growth methods for preparing CPs were discovered simultaneously by Yokozawa and McCullough in However the scope is limited.
31P NMR spectrum of Ni(II)-biaryl
Rate studies showing the reaction is zero order in monomer
31P NMR spectrum of Ni(II)aryl(halide)
McCullough and Yokozawa
Initial Rate
[Monomer]
Yokozawa