Rapid synthesis of hyperbranched aromatic polyetherimides

High molecular weight hyperbranched polyetherimides have been synthesized i n a single-pot reaction in as little as 2.5 min from an easily synthesized and scalable AB(2) monomer using a rapid catalytic arylation method. NMR in tegration experiments and model compound studies revealed a degree of branc hing (DB) of 67% for hyperbranched polyetherimide 4 relative to the expecte d statistical value of 50%. Molecular weights were determined by gel permea tion chromatography in two different solvent systems and varied widely. The polymers are highly soluble in common organic solvents and are among the m ost thermally stable hyperbranched polymers yet prepared.