SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF PROCESSABLE AROMATIC POLY(AZOMETHINE)S WITH ETHER LINKAGES

High-molecular-weight polyketanils with flexible ether linkages were p repared by the reactions of a-(4-fluorophenyl)benzylidene))-1,4-benzen ediamine with phenoxides derived from several less acidic diphenols. M olecular sieves mediated reactions of 1,4-benzenediamine with two equi valents of 4-fluorobenzophenone afforded the desired monomer in good y ield. Formation of successive ether linkages via nucleophilic aromatic substitution reactions constituted the polymer-forming step. The high -molecular-weight polymers form tough films upon compression molding, exhibit relatively high glass transition temperatures and good thermal stability.