Structural changes from polyimide films to graphite: Part IV. Novax and PPT

Various polyimide films (Kapton, Upilex, Novax, and PPT) were carbonized and graphitized up to 3000 °C. They were studied by optical and electron microscopies. All films retaining oxygen as a cross linker over 1000 °C, i.e., Kapton, Upilex, and Novax, graphitize as anthracites (high rank coals) do. They get a long range statistical orientation parallel to the film plane with a nanotexture of flattened pores. Graphitization is both sudden and perfect above 2100 °C when the pore walls break. Since oxygen is released at 1000 °C, the film PPT behaves as a compact nonporous graphitizing carbon (orientation parallel to the film plane). Thermal graphitization is progressive and begins at a higher temperature.