Synthesis and Characteristics of Novel Poly(Imide Siloxane) Segmented Copolymers

New poly(imide siloxane) copolymers for possible use as tough environmentally stable structural matrix resins and structure adhesives have been prepared. Thus, 3,3'-4,4'-benzophenone tertracarboxylic dianhydride was reacted with various Mn aminopropyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane oligomers and a meta-substituted diamine “chain-extender” such as 3,3'-diaminodiphenyl sulfone or 3,3'-diaminobenzophenone to produce the siloxane-modified poly(amic acid). Thin films were cast from the reaction mixtures and subsequent thermal dehydration produced the poly(imide siloxane) block or segmented copolymers. Upper “cure” temperatures of 300°C were used to insure complete imidization. By varying the amount and molecular weight of the siloxane oligomer, a variety of novel copolymers of controlled composition have been synthesized. Tough, transparent, flexible soluble films were produced by this method. The thermal and bulk properties of films having low to moderate siloxane content closely resemble those of the unmodified polyimide controls. However, toughness and surface behavior can be enhanced.