Anionic polymerization of dienes using oligobutadienyl-lithium as initiator

The aim of this work is to combine the microstructure of a radical-polymerized diene (butadiene and isoprene) with the functionality of an anionically prepared one, which could be used for polyurethane preparation after functionalization. A two-step anionic procedure was used in order to obtain a hydrocarbon-soluble lithium-based initiator. When compared with the related anionic polymers obtained under classical conditions, the vinyl content of the polydienes was three times greater. These findings are discussed on a mechanistic basis. © 1998 Society of Chemical Industry