SynopsisThe anionic polymerization of 1.3-cyclohexadiene (1.3-CHD) was investigated in temperatures that ranged from 25 to -77OC. Initiation by lithium naphthalene (N;,Li+) in tetrahydrofuran at -2OOC yields polymers with fairly narrow molecular weight distribution. The of t.hese polymers so prepared is ca. 20,000. Polymerization of 1.3-CHD conducted a t room temperature is accompanied by the dehydrogenation and disproportionation of the monomer, especially when NT,K+ acts as initiator.The mechanism of the initiation of the polymerization of 1.3-CHD by N:,Li+ was elucidated and the rate constants at -2OOC in tetrahydrofuran of the elementary reactions were determined. It was established that the dianions formed by disproportionation of N;,Li+ act as effective initiators for 1.3-CHD. The adducts formed constitute the cyclohexanyl and naphthyl carbanionic groups. The former carbanions ( A , , ,-275 nm) propagate the polymerization. The initially formed dimeric adducts are stabilized by the separation of the carbanionic end groups by the additional monomer units. Chain transfer to the monomer limits the growth of the polymers. The isomerization of the cyclohexadienyl anions, formed as result of chain transfer, may be followed by the elimination of lithium hydride. The latter reaction represents a termination step. Addition of 1.4-CHD to the reaction mixture enhances the chain transfer and the termination.Oligomers are formed when hexamethylphosphoramide is used as a solvent.