Copolymerization of polar monomers with olefins using transition-metal complexes

Greater success can be achieved in copolymerization of polar monomers with olefins by using target monomers that have functional groups that are protected, sterically shielded, and far removed from the olefin, as well as catalysts that are based on late-transition-metal complexes. The direct polymerization of halogenated and amine monomers, which are occasionally passive enough to allow polymerization without protection-deprotection steps, is discussed. More reactive functional groups nearly always require passivation and are also discussed in terms of the protection methods employed. The homopolymerization of (meth)acrylates is also discussed to provide a basis for comparison and contrast.