Reactions of metal atoms with poly(methylphenylsiloxanes) and other polymers and compounds of low volatility

Abstract

Liquid poly(methylphenylsiloxanes) react at 0 °C with Ti, V, Cr, Mo, and W atoms to give high yields of bis(η⁶-arene)metal complexes [arene =-[graphic omitted]i(Ph)O– groups]. The coloured complexes are very thermally stable but all are sensitive to air or moisture. Condensation of Fe, Co, or Ni atoms into the poly(methylphenylsiloxanes) at 0 °C gives only metal slurries, although at low temperatures we observe the formation of an unstable arene–iron complex. Liquid poly(phenyl ethers) give stable bis(η⁶-arene)metal complexes with V or Cr atoms at 30 °C. Polystyrene in solution in diethylene glycol dibutyl ether at -50 °C, reacts with Cr atoms to yield a complex in which 55% of the available phenyl groups are co-ordinated to the metal.