Free Radical Sources based on Zero-valent Metal Derivatives

Abstract

WE have previously shown that systems containing metal carbonyls¹, particularly those in which the metal is in the zero oxidation state, and suitable organic halides, are sources of free radicals, as evidenced by their ability to initiate vinyl polymerization in the homogeneous liquid phase. It seemed of interest to extend these observations to other derivatives of zero-valent metals, especially those having more easily removable ligands than carbon monoxide, since under these conditions free radical formation would be expected to occur more readily. We report here investigations with two such derivatives—the hexaphenylisocyano derivatives of molybdenum (0) and tungsten (0).