Catalytic olefin polymerization with early transition metal compounds

The catalysis of organic reactions by soluble metal complexes has become a major tool in synthesis, both in the laboratory and in the chemical industry. Processes catalyzed by transition metal complexes include carbonylation, olefin polymerization, olefin addition, olefin oxidation and alkane and arene oxidation. Traditionally, heterogeneous catalysts have been used for the production of large-scale commodity chemicals such as methanol and ammonia and in the production of high octane gasoline from petroleum. Homogeneous catalysts, which are soluble in the reaction medium, are commonly used in the production of high purity, high value products such as L-DOPA and highly selective biomimetic agricultural chemicals. Much of the selectivity observed with soluble catalysts originates in the process control that is attainable in the liquid phase. Not only are temperature and mixing better controlled than in heterogeneous systems, but also the nature of the active catalytic species is regulated more effectively .