New Class of Aromatic Polymers Prepared by Addition-Condensation of Designed Phenol with Formaldehyde

Functional poly (phenylenemethylene)s as a new class of phenolic resins prepared by the polycondensation of alkoxybenzene derivatives such as anisole and trimethoxybenzene with formaldehyde are described. The unique polymerization behaviors and properties of the obtained alkoxylated novolacs can be attributed to the protected phenolic hydroxyl group. For example, anisole or methoxynaphthalene novolacs are well soluble in poor solvents for phenol novolac such as chloroform and toluene, and are more stable to heat, acid, and oxidation than the common novolac. In addition, films can be prepared. Designed phenol (masked phenol derivative) is a versatile tool for the design of high-performance phenolic resins and a new class of aromatic polymers.