Polysulfone A
[CAS# 25135-51-7]

Identification

• Classification: Catalysts and additives >> Polymer
• Name: Polysulfone A
• Synonyms: SG 90 (polysulfone); Sumilit FS 1200; Thermalux; Thermalux P 1700; Thermalux P 1700NT11; UCC 80; Bisphenol A-4,4'-sulfonyldiphenol polymer, SRU; Bisphenol A-bis(4-chlorophenyl) sulfone copolymer, SRU
• CAS Registry Number: 25135-51-7
• SMILES: CC(C)(C1=CC=C(C=C1)O)C2=CC=C(C=C2)O.C1=CC(=CC=C1O)S(=O)(=O)C2=CC=C(C=C2)O

Properties

• Density: 1.240 g/cm^3*
• Melting point: 185 ºC^**
• Refractive index: 1.633 (25 ºC)^***

^* Wang, Xiao-Yan; Polymer 2005, V46(21), P9155-9161.^**Jawalkar, S. S.; Journal of Applied Polymer Science 2008, V108(6), P3572-3576.^***Huang, Y.; Macromolecules 2005, V38(24), P10148-10154.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H302-H315-H319-H335
• Precautionary Statements: P261-P280-P301+P312-P302+P352-P305+P351+P338

Discovory and Applicatios

Polysulfone A is a high-performance polymer known for its excellent thermal stability, mechanical properties, and resistance to chemical degradation. It was first developed in the mid-20th century as part of a family of polysulfones, a class of polymers that contain the sulfone group (–SO2–) in their backbone structure. Polysulfone A is specifically characterized by its unique molecular structure, which incorporates aromatic rings connected through sulfone linkages. This structure imparts significant strength and rigidity to the polymer, making it ideal for demanding applications that require both high-performance materials and long-term durability.

The development of polysulfone A began in the 1950s, driven by the need for materials that could withstand high temperatures and aggressive chemical environments, which were not well-suited to traditional plastics. Polysulfone A, synthesized through a polycondensation reaction, is produced by the reaction of bisphenol A (BPA) with sulfonyl chloride derivatives. This synthesis method results in a polymer with superior heat resistance, allowing it to maintain its structural integrity even at elevated temperatures. Over the years, advances in polymer chemistry have allowed for the refinement of polysulfone A's properties, making it one of the go-to materials for a variety of industrial and commercial applications.

One of the primary applications of polysulfone A is in the manufacturing of filtration membranes. Its chemical resistance and thermal stability make it an ideal candidate for use in water purification systems, medical filtration devices, and industrial filtration applications. Polysulfone A membranes are particularly effective in applications that involve harsh chemicals or high temperatures, where other materials might degrade. In addition to filtration, polysulfone A is also used in the production of hollow fibers for gas separation, including oxygen and carbon dioxide separation, as well as in the production of dialysis membranes for medical use.

Another notable application of polysulfone A is in the automotive and aerospace industries, where it is used in the production of components that require high strength, stiffness, and resistance to heat and chemicals. For example, polysulfone A is used in automotive fuel system components, where it can withstand exposure to aggressive fuels and oils at high temperatures. In aerospace, the polymer is used for components that require structural integrity under extreme conditions, such as those found in aircraft engines and fuel systems.

Polysulfone A is also utilized in the electrical and electronics industries due to its excellent electrical insulating properties and high dielectric strength. It is commonly used in the manufacture of electrical connectors, insulators, and circuit boards, where it provides long-lasting performance in environments with fluctuating temperatures and moisture levels. Its ability to resist degradation from electrical arcing and its mechanical strength make it a reliable material for these applications.

In addition to its industrial applications, polysulfone A is also used in medical devices. Its biocompatibility, combined with its ability to resist chemical and thermal degradation, makes it suitable for use in a variety of medical instruments and devices. This includes applications such as intravenous tubing, surgical instruments, and medical disposables that require long-term exposure to body fluids and sterilization processes.

Furthermore, ongoing research continues to explore new applications for polysulfone A, particularly in the fields of biotechnology and nanotechnology. The polymer's ability to be modified chemically or physically provides opportunities for the development of advanced materials that can meet the specific needs of these cutting-edge fields.

In conclusion, polysulfone A is a versatile and durable polymer with a wide range of applications across industries such as filtration, automotive, aerospace, electronics, and healthcare. Its exceptional mechanical properties, resistance to heat and chemicals, and biocompatibility make it an indispensable material in both industrial and medical settings.

References

Liu, X., and Li, Y., 2018. Applications of Polysulfone Membranes in Filtration and Water Treatment. Journal of Membrane Science, 542, pp. 40-47.

Zhou, J., and Wang, H., 2017. High-performance Polymers for Automotive and Aerospace Applications: The Case of Polysulfones. Polymer Engineering and Science, 57(5), pp. 485-492.

Chen, R., and Gao, X., 2016. Polysulfone A as a Material for Medical Devices: Applications and Performance. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research, 104(6), pp. 1521-1529.