Abstract: | Methyl abstraction of ZrMe{N(SiMe3)2}3 with B(C6F5)3 gives the cationic zirconium amide complex Zr{N(SiMe3)2}3]+ which acts as an initiator for the carbocationic polymerisation of isobutene and for isobutene-isoprene copolymerisations. High molecular weight homo- and co-polymers are obtained at temperatures up to ?30°C. Molecular weights are less temperature dependent than in metal halide initiated systems. |