The ROMP toolbox upgraded

Abstract

This article features the current state of research in olefin metathesis polymerization techniques towards the synthesis of functional polymeric materials. Emphasis is laid on work making use of ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) initiated by ruthenium complexes published in the last five years. Other techniques such as alternating diene metathesis polymerization (ALTMET) are only covered when appropriate. A survey on polymer architectures accessible via olefin metathesis is presented and illustrated with manifold examples from research fields like life science, optics and electronics, sensorics or energy storage. Important new developments such as end-group functionalization or stereoselective polymerization are addressed. A chapter on using alternative and green solvents in ROMP is disclosed as well as an overview on the use of olefin metathesis polymerization using sustainable substrates. Applications in material science such as porous, liquid crystal or self-healing materials close the work.