Optically active poly(ester-amide)s: synthesis and characterization

The synthesis and characterization of a new series of chiral poly(ester-amide)s are reported. They were prepared by the simple reaction of diacid chlorides with biphenolic azo chromophores and optically active dihydroxy compound (isosorbide) in dimethyl acetamide at 100 degreesC. The polymers containing isosorbide units were optically active. The polymers showed T-g between 100 and 190 degreesC and 9 were stable up to 400 degreesC. These poly(ester-amide)s showed a positive solvatochromism in UV-visible absorption spectra. Second harmonic generation activities were measured by the powder method. (C) 2001 Society of Chemical Industry.