Kapton

Kapton is a polyimide film and related tapes produced by DuPont, marketed under the brand Kapton. It is based on an aromatic polyimide and is widely used for high-temperature insulation and flexible circuitry. The base polymer is formed from pyromellitic dianhydride and 4,4'-oxydianiline, yielding an amber-colored, highly flexible film.

Properties of Kapton include exceptional thermal stability and a broad operating temperature range, typically around −269°C to 400°C. It offers high dielectric strength, good electrical insulation, low dielectric loss, and strong resistance to chemicals, radiation, and aging. The film also demonstrates good dimensional stability and relatively low moisture uptake, making it suitable for harsh environments such as aerospace and space applications. Kapton is inherently flame resistant and performs well in vacuum conditions.

Forms and applications: Kapton is available as thin films, sheets, and tapes. It is used for insulation of wires and cables, insulation in motors and transformers, and as a substrate for flexible printed circuits. Kapton tapes are employed for high-temperature masking, insulation, and protective coverings in manufacturing and aerospace equipment. Its combination of heat resistance, electrical insulation, and mechanical flexibility makes it a common choice in electronics, automotive, and aviation industries.

Manufacturing and variants: The material is marketed in several grades intended for different properties, including electrical insulation and masking. Kapton remains a registered trademark of DuPont and is widely recognized in industry for high-performance polyimide films and tapes.