Catalyst systems and methods for olefin polymerization are disclosed. The
polymerizations are performed in the presence of a clathrochelate which comprises
a transition metal ion and an encapsulating macropolycyclic ligand. At least one
of the capping atoms of the macropolycyclic ligand is a Group 3-10 transition metal
or a Group 13 atom. When a capping atom is a Group 3-10 transition metal, the clathrochelate
can be used with an activator to polymerize olefins. When a capping atom is a Group
13 atom, the clathrachelate can be used as an activator for an olefin polumerization.
Clathrochelates allow polyolefin markers to fine tune catalyst reactivity and polyolefin properties.