Enhancing polyimide hybrid functionality through optimized alkaline hydrolysis modification

The advent of Industry 4.0 has spurred the development of intelligent, interconnected systems, with porous polymer materials (PPMs) playing a pivotal role due to their versatility and integration capabilities. However, their limited mechanical strength and thermal stability hinder their use in harsh environments. Polyimide (PI), known for its exceptional thermal stability and mechanical properties, emerges as a promising candidate to address these challenges. This article delves into the optimization of alkaline hydrolysis methods to enhance the surface functionality of porous PI integrated with a copper mesh, aiming to balance modification efficiency and structural integrity. Through systematic investigation of treatment parameters, the study reveals that gas-phase hydrolysis outperforms solution-phase methods in improving hydrophilicity while preserving the porous structure. The functionalized hybrids demonstrate enhanced triboelectric properties, showcasing their potential for energy harvesting and self-powered systems in extreme environments. The findings underscore the significance of optimized surface modification techniques in unlocking the full potential of functionalized polyimides for advanced applications, from separation membranes to energy storage devices.