Polyisocyanides, synthesis and isomerization to polycyanides

Abstract
Ni(C2H5OH) (t‐C4H9NC)Cl2 and nickel acetylacetonate are effective catalysts for the polymerization of isocyanides. Protic solvents and the presence of an acid accelerate the polymerization in case of nickel acetylacetonate. The reaction products are characterized as poly‐Schiff bases. Upon treatment with acid the polymers of primary alkyl isocyanides rearrange to polycyanides.
Funding Information
  • Netherlands Foundation for Chemical Research
  • Netherlands Organization for the Advancement of Pure Research