Non-symmetric diimine ligands (Ar-N=C(CH3)-(CH3)C=NAr*; Ar: 2,6-diisopropyl-phenyl; Ar*: 2,6-di(4-tert-butyl-phenyl)phenyl (4b), 2,6-di(4-OCH3)-phenyl)phenyl (4c)) were synthesized and converted in-situ into the corresponding nickel dibromo complexes (5b, c) by reaction with (DME)NiBr2. The complexes were activated for ethene polymerization by treatment with MAOat ambient temperature. The resulting highmolecular weight polymer products (MW > 4.0 x 106 g mol-1) have a branched microstructure (predominantly methyl groups), as indicated by 13C NMR spectroscopy. The degree of branching can be controlled by a proper choice of the 2,6-diphenyl modified aniline moieties resulting in melting transitions ranging from 92 - 130 °C.
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