Codimerization of Ethylene and Styrene Catalyzed by Bis(triphenylphosphine)σ-aryl Nickel(II) Halide- Trifluoroboron Etherate

Abstract

The codimerization of styrene with ethylene was studied using the catalyst system composed of bis(triphenylphosphine)σ-aryl(bromo)nickel(II) and trifluoroboron etherate in methylene dichloride. The codimerization takes place readily at 0 °C under atmospheric pressure to give 3-phenyl-1-butene selectively. The reaction scheme was discussed on the basis of the product distribution during the course of reaction and its kinetics.