Optimization of Poly(phenylene sulfoxide ether sulfide ether) Synthesis by Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

To increase the molecular weight of poly (phenylene sulfide ether) (PPSE), a novel route has been developed via the reduction of poly (phenylene sulfoxide ether sulfide ether) (PPSOESE) precursor. The synthesis of high molecular weight PPSOESE is essential for the ultimate purpose. Effects of process parameters on preparation of PPSOESE were firstly investigated and the optimization was performed by response surface methodology (RSM). Average number molecular weight (Mn) and Yield of PPSOESE were defined as the experimental responses. The statistical analyses indicate that the most significant factor is monomer concentration, followed by reaction temperature and the interaction of reaction temperature • monomer concentration. Under optimal conditions, the and Yield responses were obtained as 1.78 ×104±1.02 % and 93.6±1.3 %, which are in agreement with the predicted values of 1.80 ×104and 95.4 %, respectively. Structure of PPSOESE was also characterized. The highest intrinsic viscosity and yield of PPSE by the reduction of PPSOESE reached to 0.78 dL/g and 93.2%, respectively, much greater than the reported results. The work is helpful for forthcoming preparation and study of high molecular weight PPSE.