Synthesis of polyetherols from melamine and ethylene carbonate

Attempts to synthesize s-triazine ring containing polyetherols from melamine and ethylene carbonate are described. The conditions of synthesis providing optimal yields of the poiyetherols were 165 degreesC, melamine to ethylene carbonate molar ratio 1 : 9 to 1 : 18, and 4 g of potassium carbonate or diazabicyclo [2.2.2]octane catalyst per mole of melamine. The structure of the products was established by H-1-NMR and IR spectroscopy. The kind and amount of side products [mostly poly(ethylene glycols)] was determined by GLC. The polyetherols have been found useful in the synthesis of polyurethanes of improved thermal stability. (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.