The invention broadly relates to release layer compositions that enable thin wafer handling during microelectronics manufacturing. Preferred release layers are formed from compositions comprising a polyamic acid or polyimide dissolved or dispersed in a solvent system, followed by curing and/or solvent removal at about 250° C. to about 350° C. for less than about 10 minutes, yielding a thin film. This process forms the release compositions into polyimide release layers that can be used in temporary bonding processes, and laser debonded after the desired processing has been carried out.