Synthesis of poly(arylene ether)s based on 9,9-bis(3,5-diphenyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)fluorene

The synthesis of a novel bisphenol, 9,9-bis(3,5-diphenyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)fluorene, in high yield by the transalkylation of 9,9-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)fluorene is described. Three poly(arylene ether)s based on this hindered phenol were prepared with molecular weights (M_n) ranging from 34 800 to 51 300 and inherent viscosities ranging from 0.27 to 0.43 dL/g. The polymers have T_g's of 236–262°C and did not lose weight below 350°C, with 10% weight loss recorded above 550°C. They are readily soluble in chlorinated solvents such as methylene chloride, chloroform, and 1,2-dichloroethane at room temperature. Attempts to synthesize an analogous monomer, bis (3,5-diphenyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)diphenylmethane, are described.