High-resolution thermogravimetry of poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene oxide)

The thermal degradation and kinetics of poly(2,6-dimethylphenylene oxide) (PPO) were studied by high-resolution thermogravimetry. The thermogravimetry measurements were conducted at an initial heating rate of 50°C min−1, resolution 4.0, and sensitivity 1.0 in both nitrogen and air from room temperature to 900°C. A two-step degradation process was clearly revealed in air at the temperatures of 430°C and 521°C. The thermal degradation temperatures and kinetic parameters of the PPO appear to be higher in air than in nitrogen, indicative of a higher thermostability in air. The temperature, activation energy, order, and frequency factor of the thermal degradation of the PPO in nitrogen are 419°C, 100–120 kJ mol−1, 0.5, and 13–17 min−1, respectively.