Polyimide: From Radiation-Induced Degradation Stability to Flat, Flexible Devices

Polyimide (PI, PMDA-ODA, C22H11N2O5, Kapton-H), is a class of polymer, extensively used in microelectronics and space technology, due to its exceptional mechanical, dielectric, and chemical properties. In space, PI heat shield experiences a harsh environment of energetic electrons, ultra-violet radiation, and atomic oxygen, causing degradation and erosion. Radiation-assisted physicochemical surface modulations in PI, in view of understanding and reducing the degradation in laboratory-based systems, are discussed in the chapter. Strategies for the design and development of 2D, flat, and flexible electromechanical devices by swift heavy ion induced bulk modifications in PI are also described. Fabrication of a couple of such devices, including their performance analysis, is presented.