Palladium-Catalyzed Synthesis of Norbornene-Based Polar-Functionalized Polyolefin Elastomers
Wenbin Wang, Min Chen, Wenmin Pang, Yougui Li, Chen Zou, Changle Chen
Abstract
Norbornene and derivatives represent an important class of comonomers in polyolefin synthesis due to their unique cyclic structures. In this contribution, two groups of norbornene comonomers are investigated. The diene-type comonomer (dicyclopentadiene and ethylidene norbornene) provides additional active sites for sulfur vulcanization. The second group contains polar-functionalized norbornenes bearing acetate, hydroxyl, and carboxylic acid substituents, which can efficiently alter the non-polar nature of polyolefin materials. Palladium-catalyzed terpolymerization of ethylene with these two groups of comonomers leads to the formation of polar-functionalized polyolefin elastomers with a high molecular weight and high comonomer content. The polymeric products possess great mechanical and elastic properties, which can be further improved through sulfur vulcanization. The polar substituents render these polymers widely tunable surface properties, dyeing properties, blending capabilities, adhesive properties, and adsorption capacities toward various organic solvents.