Base-catalyzed photosensitive polyimide

A scheme for imaging of polyimide films is described which is based on the aminecatalyzed imidization of poly(amic alkyl ester) precursor polymers. Films containing amine photogenerators along with poly(amic alkyl esters) are patterned by exposure followed by heating to partially imidize the exposed portion of the film. Negative images are developed by taking advantage of the greater solubility of the precursor polymer which is dissolved in an appropriate solvent mixture. A final cure is carried out to complete the imidization of the patterned film.