The ability of trans(Cl)-[Ru(L)(CO)(2)Cl-2] (L=various disubstituted-2,2'-bipyridine) complexes to form organometallic [Ru(L)(CO)(2)](n) polymers by electrochemical reduction has been investigated following the influence of the electronic (withdrawing or donating power) and steric effect of these L ligands. With the exception of NO2 substituents, the two electron reduction leads to the formation of an electroactive organometallic film on the electrode surface. With the strongly withdrawing nitro groups, the reduced forms of the complex are stable and prevent the electropolymerization. The electrochemical and spectroscopic properties of all these new organometallic electrode materials have been studied and vary in keeping with the bipyridine electronic properties.