Polyesters with Aromatic Groups in the Backbone from Reactions of 3- and 4-Bromomethylbenzoic Acids with Triethylamine

Abstract

Aromatic polyesters were obtained in relatively good yields (～ 70%) from reactions of 3- and 4-bromomethylbenzoic acids with tri-ethylamine in chlorobenzene. A copolymer was prepared in 58% yield by reaction of a 1:1 mixture of the two acids under similar conditions. The polyesters were characterized by IR, ¹H- and ¹³3C-NMR spectra, x-ray powder diffraction, DSC behavior, solution viscosity, and hydrolysis to the corresponding hydroxymethylbenzoic acids. Molecular weights were determined by ¹H-NMR endgroup analysis. Possible mechanisms for the reactions are discussed.