Exceptional mechanical, electrical, temperature and chemical resistance in aggressive environments, where reliability and durability are essential.

The first polyimide thin films debuted in the 1960s with DuPont’s invention of KAPTON®, made by the reaction of Pyromellitic dianhydride and 4,4′-Oxydiphenylamine.  These films found popularity as wire insulation on commercial and military aircraft.  Since then, applications expanded to include blankets for spacecraft and substrates for flexible printed circuitry, the predominant technology in smart devices including phones, tablets and automotive electronics to optimize thermal and dielectric properties.  Available in a variety of thicknesses and laminate forms, polyimide film is lightweight, flexible and, in its newest form, colorless.  Colorless polyimide film (CPI) can be found on the latest foldable smartphone designs.

Current applications:

• Flexible printed circuitry
• Non-glass displays
• Wire insulation
• Medical tubing
• Radiation protection of satellites and spacecraft

Why should I choose polyimide films?

• Excellent combination of mechanical, physical, chemical and electrical properties in a broad range of temperatures
• High heat resistance over extended periods
• Flame retardancy
• Dimensional stability

Considerations:

• Dianhydrides must be matched to the corresponding diamines for optimal properties of the polyimide.

Additional reading:

• “Six Things You Should Know about Colorless Polyimide Technology”