Complete analysis of the functionality types distribution of linear epoxide resins based on a chromatographic study of the macromolecules in the critical region

Abstract The structural heterogeneity of epoxy resins based on bisphenol and epichlorohydrin has been studied by chromatographic analysis of the macromolecules in the critical region of separation. As a result of side reactions 14 types of functionally defective macromolecules are formed, in addition to the main product, i.e. the diepoxide. The number of these defective macromolecules may be very considerable. Chemical modification of the endgroups and a model synthesis were carried out to facilitate interpretation of chromatograms of the epoxy resins in the critical region. The chromatographic system and the separation conditions were selected so that a fine and full analysis could be carried out under an isocratic regime covering both the main product and most of the side products obtained in the synthesis of the epoxydiane resins.