Synthesis and characterization of novel oligomers from the reaction of bismaleimides with diols

New thermostable oligomers have been obtained by Michael-type reaction between ordinary aliphatic or aromatic glycols and N,N'-4,4'-dibenzylbismaleimide. The polymerization occurred in solution, through hydrogen-transfer addition of the OH group to the unsaturation between the carbonyl groups of the bismaleimide. The structures were characterized by elemental analysis, infrared (IR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (H-1-NMR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The mechanical properties and also the resistance to chemical agents was investigated.