Controlled synthesis of low-molecular-weight polyethylene waxes by titanium-biphenolate-ethylaluminum sesquichloride based catalyst systems

Soluble complexes of titanium(IV) bearing sterically hindered biphenols, such as biphenol, 1,1′‐methylene di‐2‐naphthol, 2,2′‐methylene bis(4‐chlorophenol), 2,2′‐methylene bis(6‐tert‐butyl‐4‐ethyl phenol), and 2,2′ ethylidene bis(4,6‐di‐tert‐butyl phenol), were prepared and characterized. These catalyst precursors, formulated as [Ti(O∧O)X2], were active in the polymerization of ethylene at high temperatures in combination with ethylaluminum sesquichloride as a cocatalyst. The ultra‐low‐molecular‐weight polyethylenes (PEs) were linear and crystalline and displayed narrow polydispersities. The catalytic polymerization leading to PE waxes in this reaction exhibited unique properties that have potential applications in surface coatings and adhesive formulations. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1531–1539, 2007