Synthesis of cardo-polymers using Tröger's base formation

Abstract

A series of novel cardo-polymers was prepared using a polymerisation reaction based on Tröger's base formation. The precursor dianiline monomers are readily available from the reactions between appropriate anilines and cyclic ketones. One adamantyl-based cardo-polymer displays intrinsic microporosity with an apparent BET surface area of 615 m² g⁻¹. This polymer demonstrates a combination of good solubility and high molecular mass facilitating the solvent casting of robust films suitable for gas permeability measurements. The intrinsic microporosity of the polymer provides high gas permeabilities and moderate selectivities with particular promise for gas separations involving hydrogen.