Mechanistic Aspects of Polynaphthalimide Synthesis from NMR Analysis

The mechanism of the polycondensation reaction leading to naphthalimide polymers has been investigated using a model compound. In complement to F-19-NMR analysis, H-1- and C-13-NMR spectroscopies were used to identify the intermediate compound. It was concluded that there was no evidence for the formation of an isoimide, but the formation of an amide-acid intermediate was clearly demonstrated.