polyimide

chemical compound

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July 1, 2026

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Polyimides are a class of synthetic polymers known for their exceptional resistance to high temperatures, wear, and corrosion. These polymers typically feature aromatic rings linked by imide groups, which consist of two carbonyl groups attached to a single nitrogen atom.12

There are two main categories: condensation polyimides, which are linear and formed through step-growth polymerization, and addition polyimides, which have a network structure and are synthesized via heat-activated addition polymerization. A common example of a condensation polyimide is Kapton, known for its stability at temperatures up to 500° C (930° F).2

Polyimides are amorphous plastics characterized by great temperature stability and high strength, making them suitable for applications in aircraft components, sporting goods, electronics, films, and adhesives.2

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major industrial polymers
Polyimides
Polyimides are polymers that usually consist of aromatic rings coupled by imide linkages—that is, linkages in which two carbonyl (CO) groups are attached to the same nitrogen (N) atom. There are two categories of these polymers, condensation and addition. The former are made by…
Read More
Polyimides are polymers that usually consist of aromatic rings coupled by imide linkages—that is, linkages in which two carbonyl (CO) groups are attached to the same nitrogen (N) atom. There are two categories of these polymers, condensation and addition. The former are made by…
Read More