The formation of polyimides from anhydrides and isocyanates

Abstract The addition of water to the reaction of isocyanates with carboxylic acid anhydrides has been observed to increase markedly the rate of formation of the corresponding imide. This effect has been observed with both monofunctional and difunctional reagents as well as in different solvents. Evidence is presented which suggests that water hydrolyzes the isocyanate either to the corresponding urea or amine.