Book excerpt: This book is mostly based on papers presented at the Fourth International Symposium on this topic held in Savannah, Georgia. However, in addition to these papers, certain very relevant papers have also been included to broaden the scope and thus enhance the value of this book. Currently there is tremendous interest in these material because of their unique properties and applications in diverse technological areas ranging from microelectronics to aerospace to adhesive bonding. This book is divided into three parts: Part 1: Synthesis and Bulk Characterization; Part 2: Surface and Interface Aspects (Composites and Metallization); and Part 3: Applications. The topics covered include: synthesis of a number of polyimides with tailored properties; nanocomposites for high-performance applications; molecular assembly of polyimides; polyimide L-B films; metallization of polyimides; applications of high temperature polymers as proton exchange membranes; dielectrics, and in textile.