Abstract
This paper describes the synthesis and characterization of several poly(imide)s containing different phenylindane structural elements. A comparison with known polymers of similar structure but no indane rings reveals the influence of the presence of the indane system on polymer properties. In general, solubility is improved and the glass transition temperature is increased by the introduction of the bulky indane groups. Crystallization of the polymer chains is prevented by the presence of 1,1,3-trimethylindane units. Variation of the indane structure itself allows some adjustment of the solubility behaviour. 1,3-Dicyclohexyl-l-methyl units in place of the trimethylindane groups decrease the range of possible solvents, but still allow solubility at room temperature in DMAc. All polymers in this study can be cast into tough. clear, flexible films, either directly as poly(imide) solution or via the poly(amic acid) precursor. The thermal stability is decreased compared with fully aromatic polyimides. Decomposition temperatures (5% weight loss) are between 450 and 480C in air.
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