pPolyphenylenes and o,m,p-polyphenylenes are pyrolyzed at various temperatures up to 1500°C in a nitrogen atmosphere. The weight loss during the pyrolysis and the residues of pyrolysis are studied by gravimetric measurements, elemental analysis, X-ray analysis and electrical conductivity. The results of the measurements are interpreted by correlating the mechanism of pyrolysis with the structure and the numerical values of the electrical conductivity of the corresponding residues of pyrolysis. The maximum temperature of pyrolysis has a very important meaning for the electrical conductivity of the residues of pyrolysis, whereas the polymerization conditions of the various polyphenylenes play only a secondary role. Three ranges of the temperature are distinguished (up to 600 T, 600 -800 "C, above 800 "C), in which the corresponding residues of the pyrolysis are novel semiconductor materials with different structures and properties. Also the significance of chlorine as dehydrogenation agent is explained; chlorine contributes to the connection of neighbouring macromolecules; thus the presence of small amounts of CI in polyphenylenes in the first temperature range of the pyrolysis seems to be suitable.