The discussion centers on the interaction between TiCl4 and triethylaluminum in polymerization processes. Triethylaluminum alkylates TiCl4, resulting in polymeric TiCl3, which then coordinates with ethene. The inquiry raises questions about the oxidation state of titanium, noting that titanium typically has a +4 oxidation state, which is crucial for its catalytic properties. The discussion explores the implications of adding electron density through ethene coordination, suggesting that this could lower the oxidation state of titanium. It also considers whether ethene occupies an empty d orbital on titanium, potentially leading to an unstable intermediate that facilitates olefin insertion, thereby creating another vacant site on the titanium atom for further reactions.
