Precise Isomerization Polymerization of Alkenylcyclohexanes: Stereoregular Polymers Containing Six-Membered Rings along the Polymer Chain

Pd and Ni diimine complexes catalyze the isomerization polymerization of alkenylcyclohexanes to afford polymers composed of alternating trans-cyclohexane-1,4-diyl rings and oligomethylene spacers with high selectivity. The melting points of the polymers vary from 130 to 226 °C depending on length of the oligomethylene spacer.