The thermal degradation of some poly(fluorethers)

A series of poly(fluoroethers) has been studied by thermogravimetry, pyrolysisgas chromatography–mass spectrometry and fluoride ion analysis. The thermal stabilities are lower than those of a vinylidene fluoride/hexafluoropropene copolymer. Primary chain scission occurs at O—CH₂ links. Rearrangement processes giving rise to cyclic compounds are important for polymers containing aromatic or heterocyclic rings in the chain.