Synthesis and characterization of novel even–odd nylons based on undecanedioic acid

A series of novel even–odd nylons were synthesized through step-heating melting-polycondensation of undecanedioic acid with various diamines. The synthesized polyamides were characterized comprehensively by means of elements analysis, intrinsic viscosity, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Raman spectra, thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) and differential scanning analysis (DSC). The obtained products except nylons 4 11 and 2 11 have intrinsic average molecular weights ranging from 1.3 × 104 to 2.5 × 104. Nylons 4 11 and 2 11 have intrinsic average molecular weights of 8400 and 7200, respectively. The melting temperatures of this series of even–odd nylons decrease with declining the concentration of hydrogen bonds. Furthermore, the dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) was performed for nylons 12 11, 10 11, 8 11 and 6 11. The glass transition temperatures of nylons 12 11, 10 11, 8 11 and 6 11 are in the range of 40.1–45.7 °C.