Amine-Borane Dehydropolymerization: Challenges and Opportunities

The dehydropolymerization of amine-boranes, exemplified as H2RBR center dot NR ' H-2, to produce polyaminoboranes (HRBNR ' H)(n) that are inorganic analogues of polyolefins with alternating main-chain B-N units, is an area with significant potential, stemming from both fundamental (mechanism, catalyst development, main-group hetero-cross-coupling) and technological (new polymeric materials) opportunities. This Concept article outlines recent advances in the field, covering catalyst development and performance, current mechanistic models, and alternative non-catalytic routes for polymer production. The substrate scope, polymer properties and applications of these exciting materials are also outlined. Challenges and opportunities in the field are suggested, as a way of providing focus for future investigations.