Functionalization of polypropylene by hydroboration

This article relates to functionalized polypropylene with high molecular weight and high crystallinity. The chemistry involves the hydroboration of poly(propylene‐co‐1,4‐hexadiene) with borane reagents, such as diborane and 9‐BBN. In turn, the borane‐containing polymers are very versatile and can be easily converted to various functionalized polymers under mild reaction conditions. Despite the heterogeneous reaction conditions, both hydroboration and interconversion reactions were very effective using appropriate solvents. Apparently, the double bonds in the side chains are located in the amorphous phase and are ready for reaction with reagents. Overall, this functionalization process preserves the molecular weight and most of the crystallinity of poly(propylene‐co‐1,4‐hexadiene). © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.