The synthesis and catalytic activity of a first-generation poly(propylene imine) pyridylimine palladium metallodendrimer

The preparation of a new palladium metallodendrimer is described. The first generation poly(propylene imine) dendrimer [DAB(NH2)4] has been modified by the reaction of the amino end groups with 2-pyridinecarboxaldehyde. Complexation reactions with PdCl2(COD) give rise to a metal-containing dendrimer with PdCl2 moieties bound on the periphery. The new metallodendrimer was used as a catalyst precursor, activated by methylaluminoxane (MAO), for the polymerization of ethylene. High molecular weight, high density polyethylene was obtained.