Rigid stars: properties and functions

The properties of star-shaped adamantane multipodes with different types of rigid branches with various lengths are discussed. The expectation based on theoretical considerations was that such multipodes would display an enhanced solubility both in low molar mass solvents and in polymer matrices. These multipodes have a three-dimensional star-like shape, are able to crystallize but can also be obtained in the glassy state, and they show a relaxational behavior typical for polyarylates. They are soluble in various low molar mass organic solvents much better than linear rigid molecules of the same chemical constitution and of similar length and they are miscible in polymer matrices up to concentrations of 30 wt%. The multipodes were found to influence the dielectric and mechanical properties of the matrix polymers significantly. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.