Synthesis, Characterization and Glass Reinforcement of Poly(Ester Amido Imide)s

Poly(ester amido imide)s (PEAI)s (IIIa-e) were prepared by the intermolecular Diels-Alder (DA) reaction of bismaleimide (II) having epoxy resin segment with various bisfurans (Ia-e) having amide bridge. The DA reaction was carried out with tetrahydrofuran as a solvent, as well as in bulk, followed by aromatization of DA polyadduct intermediates in the presence of acetic anhydride. All the resultant polymers, designated as poly(ester amido imide)s (PEAI)s, were characterized by elemental analysis, number average molecular weight, IR spectral studies and thermogravimetry. The PEAIs exhibit good thermal stability. Bismaleimide (II) and bisfurans (Ia-e) were polymerized (at 150 +/- 10 degrees C) by in situ DA intermolecular reaction into moderately thermally stable PEAIs. The glass fiber-reinforced composites (i.e., laminates) of all PEAIs were prepared and characterized by their chemical resistance and mechanical properties.