Ring-opening polymerization of strained metallocenophanes: a new route to high molecular weight poly(metallocenes)*

Ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of strained ring-tilted metallocenophanes can be achieved thermally, via anionic initiation, or by the use of transition metal catalysts and provides access to a wide range of high molecular weight (Mw ˆ 10 ±10, Mn> 10 ) poly(metallocenes). These materials possess a variety of interesting properties and many are very easy to prepare. This article provides an overview of our work with an emphasis on recent research directions. For example, poly(ferrocene) homopolymers have potential as novel charge dissipation materials. Poly(ferrocene) block copolymers, on the other hand, offer opportunities for the preparation of self-assembled nanoscale micellar aggregates in block selective solvents and applications as anisotropic semiconductors and as nanolithographic patterning materials (e.g. via block selective etching processes) in the solid state.