Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive experimental project in polymer chemistry, centered on polyimide aerogels. The project encompasses the synthesis, structural characterization, mechanical property evaluation, and molecular dynamics simulations of aerogels. Emphasis is placed on the application of interdisciplinary knowledge and innovative experimental design. The educational framework adheres to an “Inspiration-Design-Experiment-Insight” research exploration model. This model begins by igniting students’ interest in research, progresses through the design of experimental plans, proceeds to the execution of experimental procedures, and culminates in the analysis of results and the derivation of insights. The objective is to incrementally deepen students’ understanding of chemistry and polymer science, foster innovation and research interest, and develop scientific thinking and literacy.

Key words: Aerogel, Polyimide, Mechanical property, Molecular simulation, Research-oriented experiment