Studies on heat-resistant thermosetting phthalocyanine polymers

New thermosetting poly(copper phthalocyanine) imide polymers with good toughness, superior thermal stability, chemical inertness, and fire resistance characteristics have been prepared. The studies of polymerization of two bisphthalonitriles were made using metal powder or metalic salt. Infrared, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric studies were used in determining the optimum conditions for polymerization and in characterizing the polymers produced. These polymers are noteworthy for their high char yield (73–76%) at 800°C in nitrogen atmosphere. These phthalocyanine, imide-thermosetting polymers are expected to be useful in preparing heat-resistant molded articles or laminates.