This research deals with various uses of delocalized carbanions in polymer synthesis. For example, they can be used for the preparation of novel monomers, can initiate the polymerization process, or form macromers. The work to be carried out will deal with the preparation of new silarylene and silarylene siloxane polymers with potential utility as photoresists, membranes, and materials resistant to extreme conditions. New catenanes will also be prepared, as will new types of comb polymers and block polymers. The polymerization process itself and the kinetics of propagation will be studied by advanced nuclear magnetic resonance techniques, with particular attention to the early stages of the reaction.
