Heterogenization of homogeneous metal catalysts on solid
supports
has been widely studied for product morphology control in ethylene
polymerization. In this contribution, an emulsion polymerization strategy
was introduced to achieve heterogenization of various imino-based
nickel olefin polymerization catalysts. A series of polymeric microspheres
were prepared through emulsion copolymerization of vinyl-functionalized
imino ligands with comonomers such as styrene or methyl methacrylate.
The corresponding heterogeneous nickel catalysts demonstrated superior
properties in ethylene polymerization and copolymerization with methyl
10-undecylenate. Their catalytic properties can be controlled by tuning
the comonomer type, composition, and particle size. Most importantly,
this strategy can achieve product morphology control and avoid reactor
fouling while generating polyethylene products with minimum inorganic
contamination. In addition, the introduction of polymer microspheres
can improve the mechanical properties and surface properties of polyolefin
products.