| abstract |
Described herein is an improved process for preparing poly(aryl ethers) and poly(aryl ether ketones) by the reaction of a mixture of at least one bisphenol and at least one dihalobenzenoid compound, and/or a halophenol, in which the improvement comprises providing to the reaction medium, a combination of sodium or an alkaline earth metal carbonate and/or bicarbonate and a potassium, rubidium, or cesium salt of an organic acid or combinations of various organic salts thereof. The process yields high molecular weight, linear, poly(aryl ethers) and poly(aryl ether ketones) possessing excellent thermal stability and physical properties. |