Self‐Diagnostic Polymers—Inline Detection of Thermal Degradation of Unsaturated Poly(ester imide)s

Abstract Monitoring polymer degradation is an important quest, particularly relevant for industry. Although many indirect methodologies assessing exist, only few are applicable inline‐monitoring via optic detection‐systems. An system introduced the thermal of crosslinked poly(ester imide)s (PEIs) by embedding trifluoroacetyl functionalized stilbene molecules, serving as chemosensors to track release generated alcoholic byproducts. Nucleophilic addition alcohol sensors functionality triggers hemiacetal formation which accompanied significant changes in optical properties, turn allowing monitoring sensor activation direct spectroscopy. Fluorescence spectroscopy offers easy detection tool inline PEI‐degradation.