Crosslinked networks based on trimethoxysilyl functionalized poly(amic ethyl ester) chain extendable oligomers

We report here the synthesis and characterization of poly(amic ethyl ester) oligomers functionalized with trimethoxysilyl end-groups. The oligomers were prepared via the condensation of 1,1-bis(4-aminophenyl)-1-phenyl-2,2,2-trifluoroethane, diethyldichloromellitate and p-aminophenyltrimethoxysilane. The p-aminophenyltrimethoxysilane was used to control both molecular weight and end-group functionality. These oligomers were thermally cured to form crosslinked networks. The resulting networks possessed T-g in excess of 450 degrees C and thermal decomposition temperatures in the proximity of 500 degrees C. The formation of networks was confirmed by swelling studies. These oligomers offer an attractive processing alternative as low viscosity precursors to crosslinked polyimide networks. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.