The catalytic process involves the formation of an active species through the interaction between the transition metal compound and the organometallic co-catalyst. This active species then acts on the monomer units (like ethylene or propylene) to form polymer chains. The mechanism can be described as follows:
1. Activation: The organoaluminum compound activates the titanium compound by reducing it to a lower oxidation state. 2. Propagation: The activated complex binds to the monomer, initiating the polymerization process. 3. Termination: The chain growth continues until a termination event occurs, which can be due to various factors, including the addition of a terminator molecule or the depletion of monomer.
