Functionalised microgels: novel stabilisers for catalytically active metalcolloids

Microgel stabilised palladium colloids have been prepared by a novel strate gy based on the synthesis of microgels upon radical solution copolymerisati on of suitable functional monomers containing sulfonic acid groups. These m icrogels can be conveniently loaded with Pd2+ ions which are subsequently r educed. The resulting metal colloids (10-20 nm diameter) can be precipitate d from the reaction mixture and redispersed in suitable solvents. Prelimina ry tests indicate that microgel stabilised palladium colloids are active ca talysts for the vinylation of aryl iodides and bromides (Heck reaction). (C ) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.