Polymers containing formamidine groups

Summary New aromatic polymers containing formamidine groups were prepared by high temperature solution polycondensation of triethyl orthoformate with various aromatic diamines. The resulting polyformamidines were characterized by elemental analysis, IR' and ¹H NMR spectroscopy, viscosity measurements, thermogravimetry, DSC- and WAXS measurements. With few exceptions aromatic polyformamidines show excellent solubility in polar solvents and strong acids, but they were gradually decomposed in extended contact with moisture. Polyformamidines containing rigid para structures are well crystallizing materials, which was proved by WAXS investigations. Glass transition temperatures in the range of 62 – 163°C were observed for semicrystalline or amorphous polymers. All aromatic polyformamidines are thermally stable in nitrogen up to 300°C.