Thermal properties of nylons containing carbonyl groups

Nylons containing carbonyl groups in backbone chains were prepared and their response to heat was studied. The carbonyl groups were introduced using either HOOC(CH2)4CO(CH2)4COOH or H2N(CH2)5CO(CH2)5NH2 in the initial monomer compositions. In addition to pyrolysis of these polyamides, the progress of chemical and physical changes as a function of temperature was continuously monitored and analyzed by FT–IR spectroscopy on cast films placed in an environmental chamber. Introduction of the carbonyl groups into the polymer backbone resulted in a significant reduction of the thermal stability of the corresponding polyamide. Possible mechanisms for the thermal degradation entailing these carbonyl groups and N‐acylamide compounds are discussed.