Polyimides have been available commercially for over 25 years, but are still frequently thought of as new materials, due largely to their performance and high technology end uses, which ensure that levels of research and development remain high.

The range of materials available enables their use in fibres, films, moulding powders, coatings and composites, in applications ranging from large aerospace components to microelectronics. Their major advantage, a high heat resistance, permits applications out of the reach of most other polymers, but also leads to difficulties in processing.

This detailed review describes the synthesis, properties, processing and applications of condensation, addition and hybrid polygamies, and contains some 79 tables of property data. Further information on specific grades and applications can be obtained from the 352 references and abstracts which have been selected from the Polymer Library to complete the report.