Articles

Silica Aerogel: Eco-Friendly Substitute for Traditional Insulation Materials

by Vijay K. Web Marketing
Silica aerogel is used in thermal insulation systems, as it has the potential to substitute traditional insulation materials like fiberglass, polystyrene foam, cellulose, mineral wool, and polyurethane foam, and the systems made with this synthetic material consume less energy. Silica aerogel with low thermal conductivity offers more benefits than the traditional materials used for thermal insulation. Moreover, its efficiency in transmitting solar radiation increases its importance in the construction industry, and its transparency property makes it suitable for windows and skylights, which are used in buildings, for the insulation process. 

According to P&S Intelligence, the silica aerogel market will showcase a CAGR of 31.1% during forecast period. Furthermore, the high thermal insulation capacity and lightweight feature of silica aerogel have led to its increased usage in the aerospace and defense sectors.


Aerogel is produced from inorganic and organic predecessors by using a conventional technique of sol-gel polymerization that converts monomers into a colloid solution known as a sol. A semi-solid gel is formed by the combination of sol particles. Whereas, a solid aerogel is created when the solvent is displaced from wet gel via air without breaking the gel structure. This polymer has a nanostructure that comprises particles and pores that are quite smaller than the wavelength of visible spectrum. This chemical property gives thermal, acoustic, and optical features to the aerogel.

Additionally, the eco-friendly characteristic of silica aerogel is one of the key reasons behind its widening application base. The material is manufactured by using environment-friendly raw materials that are similar to natural substances, such as silicates, which are available in abundance and do not emit toxic chemicals.


Moreover, the recyclable feature of silica aerogel sponges makes them cost-effective and eco-friendly. Due to these properties, the usage of this material has escalated in several sectors, such as healthcare, building insulation, aerospace, oil & gas, and construction.

Thus, the excellent insulation and eco-friendly properties of silica aerogel will increase its application in the coming years.

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About Vijay K. Senior   Web Marketing

211 connections, 3 recommendations, 862 honor points.
Joined APSense since, May 17th, 2016, From New York, United States.

Created on May 27th 2021 03:09. Viewed 195 times.

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