Polyimides are very durable, easy to machine and have exceptional heat and chemical resistance. They are also highly insulative and do not contaminate their surroundings. Their strength and heat and chemical resistance are so great that they are often used to replace glass and metals, such as steel, in many demanding industrial applications. Polyimides are even used in many everyday applications. They are used in cars both externally and internally because they can withstand the intense heat and the corrosive lubricants, fuels, and coolants found in cars. They are also used in the construction of many appliances as well as microwave cookware and food packaging because of their thermal stability, resistance to oils, greases, and fats and their transparency to microwave radiation. They can also be used in circuit boards, insulation, fibres for protective clothing, composites, and adhesives. This report covers the synthesis of polyimides from chloral and trinitrotoluene and reviews the production of new types of polyimides combining good thermal, mechanical and electrical properties with improved processability. It is ideal for those who work with polyimides, either producing them or those using them to manufacture other goods. It will be of interest to those in both academia and industry.
