An alpha-iminocarboxamide nickel complex was activated by trimethylaluminum (TNIA) and used in the polymerization of ethylene and its copolymerization with 10-undecen-1-ol. The best activity was observed upon activation with 9 equiv of TMA at a temperature of 26 degrees C. NMR spectroscopic studies did not show 10-undecen-1-ol incorporation. However, FTIR analyses suggest the incorporation of a very small amount of comonomer, which affects the glass transition temperature, the degree of branching, and the mechanical properties of the materials. (c) 2007 Wiley Peliodicals, Inc.