Synthesis, Properties, and Derivatization of Poly(dihydrogermane): A Germanium-Based Polyethylene Analogue

Polygermanes are germanium-based analogues of polyolefins and possess polymer backbones made up catenated Ge atoms. In the present contribution we report preparation a germanium polyethylene analogue, polydihydrogermane (GeH2)n, via two straightforward approaches that involve topotactic deintercalation Ca ions from CaGe Zintl phase. The resulting (GeH2)n possesses morphologically dependent chemical electronic properties thermally decomposes to yield amorphous hydrogenated Ge. We also show provides platform which functionalized polygermanes can be prepared induced hydrogermylation-mediated pendant group substitution.