Polyimides: Past, present, and future

This work highlights the state-of-the-art science on the genesis and research of polyimides as one of the most valuable polymers belonging to the class of high-performance polymers. Particularly, we focus on the most important aspects regarding the synthesis, physiochemical characteristics, and applications of polyimides, with a special concern on the newest trends demanded by the emergent technologies. After a brief introduction that evidences the pathways approached for polyimide structure modification as to make them appropriate for such applications, a short history is provided. Then, we review the most important synthetic methods used to prepare polyimides with reference to some green alternatives to the conventional ones. Finally, we review several important applications of polyimides with emphasis on the most recent ones that enabled the advances of polyimides as films, coatings, fibers, aerogels, or carbon precursors in various fields. The work is ending with some challenges and perspectives on the future of polyimides. Overall, the information provided herein represent an up-to-date resume on polyimides and may support further research and development in the field of polymer materials for high-tech applications.