Abstract
Polyimide films were treated in air with an argon‐fluorine ultraviolet excimer laser (λ=193 nm). X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis was performed on the modified surfaces after laser exposure at various fluences around the expected threshold fluence Fth. From the present data the photochemical process (photoablation) leads to produce a carbon‐rich surface by ejecting mainly oxides of carbon and nitrogen compounds above a particular fluence Fe.