Isothermal degradation of poly-2,2′-(m-phenylene)-5,5′-bibenzimidazole

The isothermal degradation of poly-2,2′-(m-phenylene)-5,5′-bibenzimidazole in vacuo has been studied. Measurement of the increase in pressure with time, coupled with infrared analysis, was used to determine the distribution of the degradation products. Processes A and B with different second-order rate laws were determined to be significant in the temperature range of 550–700°C. Process A leads to the formation of equimolar quantities of hydrogen and ammonia and has an activation energy of 68 kcal/mole. Process B leads to the production of HCN, NH₃, and H₂ in the ratio of 1:1:2.5 and has an activation energy of 77 kcal/mole. The activation energies and the rate laws are consistent with a mechanism in which the initial degradation step is the bimolecular reaction of two aromatic rings.