Poly(p-phenylene)

Poly(p-phenylene) is a type of polymer that consists of phenylene units linked by their para positions. It is a rigid-rod polymer that is highly crystalline and exhibits excellent thermal stability, mechanical properties, and electrical conductivity.

Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]

Poly(p-phenylene) is composed of repeating phenylene units, which are aromatic hydrocarbon rings. The polymer chains are linked at the para positions of the phenylene rings, resulting in a linear, rigid-rod structure. This structure gives the polymer its high crystallinity and excellent thermal stability.

The electrical conductivity of poly(p-phenylene) is due to the delocalized pi electrons in the phenylene rings. These electrons can move along the polymer chain, allowing it to conduct electricity.

Synthesis[edit | edit source]

Poly(p-phenylene) can be synthesized through a variety of methods, including the polymerization of p-dichlorobenzene or the oxidative coupling of benzene. The choice of synthesis method can influence the properties of the resulting polymer, such as its molecular weight and degree of crystallinity.

Applications[edit | edit source]

Due to its unique properties, poly(p-phenylene) has a wide range of applications. It is used in the manufacture of high-performance fibers, semiconductor devices, and gas separation membranes. It is also used in the field of organic electronics, where it can serve as a conductive polymer in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) and organic solar cells.