Synthesis of Block and Random Copolymers of Isoprene via Two-Electron Transfer Mechanism

Supramolecular complexes of alkali metals, capable of two electron transfer and generation of carbanions have been utilized in the polymerization of isoprene. The "living" polyisoprene blocks were subsequently used to react with styrene to produce the relevant block copolymers. The polyisoprene-polystyrene random copolymers were also obtained. The novel type of anionic polymerization initiated via novel supramolecular catalyst yields polyisoprene copolymers with well defined structure and properties.