Synthesis of optically active polymers by asymmetric catalysts. IV. Dialkylzinc – alcohol system as catalyst for asymmetric-selective polymerization of propylene oxide

The system diethylzinc/optically active alcohol was examined as catalyst for asymmetric-selective polymerization of propylene oxide. Optically active alcohols with rigid structure are effective for the asymmetric selection. D (–)-1-Methoxypropanol-2 as well as poly(D -propylene oxide) of low molecular weight with hydroxyl end groups select L (–)-propylene oxide. ?Catalyst control”? mechanism of the stereoselection in the polymerization is suggested on this and other bases.