We report the preparation of a new novolac having formyl groups by the addition-condensation of 2,4,6-trimethoxybenzaldehyde (1) and 1,3,5-trimethoxybenzene (2) with formaldehyde. In the case of the polymerization of 1 and formaldehyde, polymerization did not occur; however, the polymerization of 1, 2 and formaldehyde proceeded to give polymer 3 (M n 4200, M w =M n 1.2). The FT-IR, 1 H NMR and 13 C NMR spectra of 3 showed that it had phenylene-methylene units on the polymer backbone and the formyl groups of 1 remained without side reactions. To evaluate its ability as a reactive polymer, the imination of 3 with 1,5-diaminopentane was carried out to obtain an organo-insoluble gel (5), which had the network structure of 3 and a pentamethylene unit via the imine moiety. The temperature at 5% loss in weight (T d5 , 335 C) of 5 slightly decreased compared to that of 3 (351 C). This result indicates that polymer 3 can be utilized as a reactive polymer, and form a thermostable gel via the imine moiety.

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We successfully synthesized acetyl group-containing phenolic resins as novel reactive polymers. The addition-condensation of 2,4,6-trimethoxyacetophenone (1) with an equimolar amount of formaldehyde catalyzed by 12 mol/L HCl aq. proceeded homogeneously without side reactions to give polymer 3 (M n 4800, M w =M n 1.3) in 32% yield. The FT-IR, 1 H NMR and 13 C NMR spectra of 3 revealed that it had arylene-methylene units on the polymer backbones. The terpolymerization from 1, 1,3,5-trimethoxybenzene (2) and formaldehyde was also carried out. When the feed ratio of 1 to 2 was 1:1, the content of 1 in the obtained polymer, 4, was found to be 25% by the 1 H NMR spectrum; hence, the reactivity of 1 was lower than that of 2. The reactions of 4 with Grignard reagents were carried out to evaluate the reactivity of acetyl groups in the obtained polymers. Their reactions proceeded at some parts of acetyl groups, so 4 can be applied as novel reactive phenolic resins. From thermogravimetric analyses, thermal stabilities of the functionalized polymers (6a-6d) are similar to that of 4, so it is expected that 4 have characters not only of the phenolic resins but also of the reactive polymers.

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Background: Although 12 years have passed since Great East Japan Earthquake and following Fukushima nuclear accident, approximately 40% of Japanese citizen still believe that the current radiation exposure in Fukushima residents will likely cause genetic effects of radiation. This misunderstanding could continue unexpected discrimination and prejudice towards those from Fukushima now and in the future. In order to provide updated knowledge and eliminate rumors related to radiation, Japanese Ministry of the Environment has launched “GU-GU-RU project” in 2021 with consisting of five sections. Objective: To discuss the objectives and effects of the “GU-GU-RU Project” (results after the first year), to present administrative measures that may be effective in the long-term to prevent unjustified discrimination and prejudice, and to eliminate rumors in the event of future large-scale disasters, including radiation disasters. Methods: We showed the contents of each sections carried out under the project and observed the result of first-year activities in each section. Results: Among the programs, the “Radiation College” has steadily produced positive results, with nearly 1,300 students participating and 50 students sharing their thoughts and ideas. In addition, the project has adopted strategies such as creating and broadcasting a TV program and collaborations with manga, which are expected to have a significant impact on society. Conclusions: Compared to previous efforts on disseminating information related to health effect of radiation exposure, the “GU-GU-RU Project” has taken a different approach in providing information of radiation and its health effects, which could become a better understanding of health effects of radiation for the general public.