| Abstract: | Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize the thermal polymerization of the acetylene-terminated (AT) resin, bis[4-(3-ethynylphenoxy)phenyl]sulfone. Spectral processing techniques (including the method of factor analysis) were utilized in the analysis of the infrared data. The degree of cure was quantitatively monitored as the resin was thermally polymerized. Factor analysis indicated that only one reaction product is spectroscopically distinguishable. Further band analysis indicated the formation of predominantly trans conjugated polyene structures. No evidence for cyclotrimerization was found. |
