Process for reducing mono-functional and non-functional by-products during aralkylation of phenolics

Phenol aralkyistion polymers can be prepared by reaction among a phenolic monomer, at least one styrenic monomer and an aryl diolefin. A phenolic monomer can be initially aralkylated in the presence of an acid catalyst with a first portion of at least one styrenic monomer to obtain an aralkylated phenol. The aralkylated phenol thereafter can be reacted with an aryl diolefin to obtain a phenol aralkylation polymer. Optionally, (though preferably) the phenol aralkylation polymer is further aralkylated with a second portion of at least one styrenic monomer. By employing specific catalyst concentrations, reactant concentrations, reaction temperatures, and reaction times, the formation of mono-functional and non-functional by-products is substantially reduced.