Preparation and Polymerization of Tetrolonitrile

A polyconjugated polymer obtained by polymerization of tetrolonitrile with anionic catalysts is described. The monomer was synthetized from methyltetrolate via tetrol‐amide with better yields and purity than obtained with other methods. Polymerization was initiated by butyllithium and lithium naphthalene in tetrahydrofuran at 0° and −80°C., yielding a dark‐brown product, soluble in polar solvents. Molecular weight, electrical conductivity in solid state and in solution, as well as infrared and ESR spectra were determined. The properties of the substance are discussed in connection with the proposed polyenic structure.