An electrochemical sensor incorporates a ferrocenophane which is a compound with at least one bridging group covalently attached to and connecting the two cyclopentadiene rings associated with the same iron atom. This bridging group maybe tetramethylene. As compared to an equivalent sensor with ferrocene, the tolerance of elevated temperature is improved and so is the working life at ambient temperature.
A method for producing a polydiene, the method comprising the steps of (i) forming an active catalyst by combining a lanthanide-containing compound, an alkylating agent, and a halogen source in the substantial absence of an organosulfide; and (ii) polymerizing conjugated diene monomer in the presence of the active catalyst and an organosulfide.