Polycarbosilane‐supported titanium(IV) catalyst for Knoevenagel condensation reaction

Polycarbosilane (PCS) was synthesized by the polycondensation of trichloromethylsilane and trimethoxyvinylsilane in the presence of sodium metal. PCS has a highly crosslinked structure, high ceramic yield and high surface area. Titanium metal ion was attached to the polycarbosilane and its catalytic activity was investigated. The Knoevenagel condensation reaction catalysed by titanium‐incorporated polycarbosilane is reported. The titanium‐incorporated PCS catalysed the reaction well and with a diverse set of substrates the reaction proceeded with good yield. PCS‐supported transition metal catalysts have been prepared for the first time and used successfully in the Knoevenagel condensation reaction. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.