abstract |
The present invention provides a process for preparing shaped articles and articles prepared by such process based on a polyimide polymer, the polymer prepared by subjecting a mixture of aromatic dianhydride and aromatic diamine monomers, at least one of which contains the group ##STR1## linking two aromatic moieties, wherein R is CF 3 or phenyl, to a low temperature, substantially isothermal solution polymeriazation process wherein the content of the mixed monomers in solvent is maintained within the range of from about 8 to about 12% by weight solids concentration during the polymerization process. The process is conducted for a sufficient length of time and uniformity of temperature, generally below about 35° C., to achieve a weight average polyimide polymer molecular weight within the range of about 80,000 to about 135,000, more preferably of about 90,000 to about 125,000, a polyimide inherent viscosity within the range of from about 0.45 to about 0.70, and a polydispersity with the range of from about 1.7 to about 2.6. |