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.