Metal‐Containing Polymers

AbstractThe focus of this article is on the synthesis, properties, and applications of metal‐containing polymers. These polymers may be classified based on the types of metal–ligand bonding, and whether the metal is an integral part of the polymer backbone or pendent to the polymer backbone. The first class of polymers discussed are those with metals σ‐bonded to organic spacers in their backbones. Examples of metal–metal single and multiple bonds are also described. Metallocenes and coordination polymers are two classes of polymers where the metal is π‐coordinated to the organic ligands. The coordination of metals to porphyrins, phthalocyanines, Schiff base ligands, as well as to many other types of ligands are described. Another major class of polymers are those where the metal is pendent to the polymer backbone. These polymers include materials with metallic moieties π‐coordinated to unsaturated ligands in their backbones. Polymers with metallic moieties in their side chains are also described. A brief overview of star polymers and dendrimers is also included.