The synthesis of Ni (II) and Pd (II) cyclophane-based α-diimine olefin polymerization catalysts bearing a range of electron-donating or-withdrawing groups is described. Substituent effects were confirmed by measurement of CO infrared stretching frequencies in Pd (II) carbonyl complexes. Polymerizations with ethylene were investigated in detail involving determination of catalyst productivity and thermal stability, especially at elevated ...
