Abstract
Poly (2, 2′-m-phenylene-5, 5′-bibenzimidazole) having high molecular weight was prepared by single-step melt polycondensation of 3, 3′, 4, 4′-etraaminobiphenyl (TAB) with 1, 3-dicyanobenzene in the presence of ammonium chloride catalyst. Its mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties were investigated. The polymer was soluble in dimethyl sulfoxide and other polar solvents. Fiber and film were easily made from the solutions. Thermal stability of this polymer was as excellent as that of the polymer prepared by melt and solid state two-step polycondensation of TAB with diphenyl isophthalate developed by Marvel. Tensile strength and elongation of the polymer film were higher, but Young's modulus was lower, than values of Marvel's polymer. The polymer was very hygroscopic at room temperature, and showed low electrical volume resistivity and excellent electrostatic discharging property.
