Synthesis of new phosphorus-containing (co)polyesters using solid-liquid phase transfer catalysis and product characterization.

This paper is directed towards the development of safe, and thermally stable solid polymer electrolytes. Linear phosphorus-containing (co)polyesters are described, including their synthesis, thermal analysis, conductivity, and non-flammability. Polycondensation of phenylphosphonic dichloride (PPD) with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG 12000) with and without bisphenol A (BA) was carried out using solid-liquid phase transfer catalysis. Potassium phosphate is used as base. Yields in the range of 85.0-88.0%, and inherent viscosities in the range of 0.32-0.58 dL/g were obtained. The polymers were characterized by gel permeation chromatography, FT-IR, (1)H- and (31)P-NMR spectroscopy and thermal analysis. Their flammability was investigated by measuring limiting oxygen index values. The polymers are flame retardants and begin to lose weight in the 190 °C-231 °C range. Solid phosphorus- containing (co)polyesters were complexed with lithium triflate and the resulting ionic conductivity was determined. Conductivities in the range of 10(-7)-10(-8) S cm(-1) were obtained.