The researchers from Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics in China have developed a new type of nanofibrous aerogel composite that is lightweight, strong, and has excellent thermal insulation properties. This material could be used to make buildings and vehicles more energy-efficient, and could even be used to protect astronauts from the harsh environment of space.
The recent publication is published at Journal of Alloys and Composites (2023) can be accessed by the link https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2023.170331
The researchers are to be commended for their hard work and dedication to this research. They have made a significant contribution to the field of thermal insulation, and their work has the potential to make a real difference in the world.
- Novel SiO2-based Nanofibrous Aerogel Composites with Outstanding Comprehensive Properties for Thermal Insulation under Extreme Conditions
- SiO2 Nanofibers with Bead-on-String Structure Embedded TiO2 Nanoparticles as Opacifier: Preparation, Characterization, and Potential Applications
- TiO2 Nanoparticles Reinforced SiO2 Nanofibrous Aerogels: A Promising Material for Thermal Insulation under Extreme Conditions
- SiO2 Nanofibrous Aerogels with Enhanced Thermal Insulation Properties by TiO2 Nanoparticles
- TiO2 Nanoparticles as Opacifier for SiO2 Nanofibrous Aerogels: A Novel Approach to Improve Thermal Insulation Performance
Novel Fibrous Aerogel Composites for Improved Thermal Insulation
Fibrous aerogel composites are known for their low thermal conductivity and elasticity, making them attractive for use in insulation materials. However, under practical application conditions, they often fall short in thermal insulation performance due to their high infrared radiation transmittance and limited thermal stability. In this blog post, we’ll explore a novel approach for creating fibrous aerogel composites with improved thermal insulation properties.
The approach involves embedding anatase TiO2 nanoparticles in SiO2 nanofibers using electrospinning, which enhances the binding force between the nanofibers and opacifier nanoparticles and ensures uniform dispersion of the opacifier in the nanofibrous aerogel. The resulting composite has a lamellar structure and ultra-low density (5.8 mg/cm3), as well as superior compression strength (6.71 kPa at 40% strain) and fast recovery after compression.
In addition to these mechanical properties, the aerogel composite also exhibits low infrared transmittance (60% at 3 µm) and low thermal conductivity (0.0257 W/mk at room temperature). These properties make it an ideal candidate for thermal insulation under extreme conditions. Furthermore, the composite possesses excellent flame-retardant properties, adding an extra layer of safety to its use in insulation materials.
Overall, this novel approach offers a promising solution for creating highly efficient thermal insulation materials that can withstand extreme conditions. By embedding anatase TiO2 nanoparticles in SiO2 nanofibers, the resulting fibrous aerogel composite possesses a unique combination of mechanical, thermal, and flame-retardant properties that make it a valuable addition to the field of insulation materials.
How do the nanofibrous aerogel composites work?
The composites work by trapping air in the spaces between the nanofibers. This air is a poor conductor of heat, so it helps to keep the material insulated. The titanium dioxide nanoparticles also help to improve the thermal insulation properties of the composites by reflecting infrared radiation.
What are the potential applications of the composite?
The composites could be used in a variety of applications, including:
- Building insulation: New nanofibrous aerogel composites could revolutionize thermal Insulation could be used to make buildings more energy-efficient by reducing heat loss through the walls and roof.
- Vehicle insulation: New nanofibrous aerogel composites could be used to make vehicles more energy-efficient by reducing heat loss through the bodywork.
- Spacecraft insulation: New nanofibrous aerogel composites could be used to protect astronauts from the harsh environment of space by reducing heat loss from the spacecraft.
The future of thermal insulation
The development of these new nanofibrous aerogel composites is a major breakthrough in the field of thermal insulation. These materials have the potential to revolutionize the way we insulate buildings, vehicles, and spacecraft. With further development, these materials could help us to save a significant amount of energy and reduce our impact on the environment.