| Abstract: | Phenylated, ordered imide–quinoxaline copolymers of high oxidative-thermal stability were prepared by one-step solution condensation of aromatic tetraamines with N,N′-bis(4-benzilyl)pyromellitimide. Polymerization in m-cresol leads to high molecular weight polymers that remain soluble. Thermal gravimetric analysis and isothermal decomposition at 400°C shows that these polymers are as stable as polyimides or polyquinoxalines. The polymer decomposition temperatures range between 495 and 550°C, depending upon structure. Also, the rate of isothermal decomposition at 400°C in air showed a strong dependency of weight loss on structure. Tough films were cast from solution. |
