Synthesis and characterization of a soluble, highly branched organo-silicon-nitride polymer

A highly soluble organopolysilazane was generated from the reaction of CySi Cl3 with Li3N in diglyme. On the basis of light scattering, elemental analy sis, NMR spectra, and solubility data, this polymer is believed to be highl y branched with a molecular weight of approximately 26 000 Da. The polymer is characterized by excellent solubility in all organic solvents, a highly economical method of synthesis, a hyperbranched topology, and potential app licability to a wide range of R group modification. The use of lithium nitr ide has allowed the generation of highly branched structures without the ne ed to further treat the polymer with insolubilizing cross-linking agents.