Synthesis and characterization of bisphenol- A, hydroquinone and biphenol functional poly(aryl ether) bissulfones

Like all amorphous polymers polysulfones are prone to stress cracking and crazing in organic solvents. While Radel^R is more resistant due to its higher tendency to crystallize, the increasing use of composites in the aerospace and automotive industries precludes a demand for thermoplastic resin matrix systems with greater environmental stress cracking resistance, as well as expanded continuous use temperature ranges. This paper will look into the synthetic utility of three alternative poly(aryl ether sulfones) based on a more rigid bissulfone monomer, 4,4′-bis(4-chlorophenylsulfonyl)-biphenyl beginning with model compound studies for hydroquinone, biphenol, and bisphenol A functional polymers. We have synthesized a novel bissulfone functional bishalide in high yield and high purity. The synthesized monomer has been utilized successfully to prepare a variety of model ethers and high to moderate molecular weight polymers.