Synthesis of optically active polymers by asymmetric catalysts. IV. Dialkylzinc – alcohol system as catalyst for asymmetric‐selective polymerization of propylene oxide

The system diethylzinc/optically active alcohol was examined as catalyst for asymmetric‐selective polymerization of propylene oxide. Optically active alcohols with rigid structure are effective for the asymmetric selection. D(–)‐1‐Methoxypropanol‐2 as well as poly(D‐propylene oxide) of low molecular weight with hydroxyl end groups select L(–)‐propylene oxide. „Catalyst control”︁ mechanism of the stereoselection in the polymerization is suggested on this and other bases.