N-Heterocyclic carbenes for metal-free polymerization catalysis: an update

CATEGORY: POLYMERIZATION CATALYSIS 
N-Heterocyclic carbenes for metal-free polymerization catalysis: an update

Type	Journal Article
Author	Stefan Naumann
Author	Andrew P Dove
URL	Free Full Text Source:  http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/pi.5034/abstract
Volume	65
Issue	1
Pages	16-27
Publication	Polymer International
Date	January 1, 2016
Abstract	This mini-review is intended to serve as a concise introduction to polymerizations that are catalysed by N-heterocyclic carbenes. The content is structured according to accessible monomer functionalities and type of polymerization. Both major achievements as well as the latest developments in this rapidly evolving field are presented. A broad range of different types of monomers is covered in this way, including among others lactones, epoxides, anhydrides, acrylates, siloxanes and lactams. Special emphasis is put on mechanistic understanding and structure–activity relationships.