Synthesis and Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization of Second-Generation Dendronized Poly(ether) Monomers Initiated by Ruthenium Carbenes

The Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP) of second-generation dendronized monomers is described. Using the highly active and fast-initiating third-generation ruthenium complex [(H_2IMes)(pyr)_2Cl_2RuCHPh], moderate to high molecular weight polymers (430-2230 kDa) are efficiently synthesized with low dispersities (Ð = 1.01-1.17). This study highlights the power of the metathesis approach toward polymer synthesis in a context where monomer structure can significantly impede polymerization