| abstract |
Catalysts for the polymerization of olefins are provided. The catalysts contain transition metals including nickel and palladium and a diimine ligand in a square planar configuration with two other ligands, and are useful in the polymerization of, for example, olefins, cycloolefins, olefinic esters, and olefinic carboxylic acids. The cocatalyst forms a useable coordinating anion. Polymerization processes using the catalysts can produce homopolymers and copolymers, and the polymers produced may be crosslinked and/or exhibit branching. |