Synthesis, characterisation and decomposition of 1,3-benzene disulfonyl azide; a cross-linking agent for polyolefins

We have studied the thermal decomposition of 1,3-benzenedisulfonyl azide (1,3-BDSA), and verified that sulfonyl nitrenes formed are able to cross-link polyolefins, including PP. The decomposition was studied with DSC, TGA, and the GC–MS analysis of gaseous products. Both the decomposition of pure 1,3-BDSA and 1,3-BDSA dissolved in a polyolefin were studied. Decomposition occurs by loss of nitrogen giving sulfonyl nitrenes. In the polyolefin nitrenes cross-links the carbon chains by C–H insertion. Cross-linking of PP was verified with SEC. SEC showed no signs of decomposition of PP. Decomposition in the polyolefin was a first order reaction with a half-life of 25.7 s at 200 °C. Hence, 1,3-BDSA is suited for processing with polyolefins. Decomposition of pure 1,3-BDSA is more complicated with unwanted products such as SO2 and benzene being formed, thereby emphasising the need for good blending when used in polyolefins.