Aerogels and Ceramic Composites for Thermal Insulation
This community develops porous aerogels and ceramic composites designed to block heat transfer, primarily for high-temperature industrial applications, building energy efficiency, and aerospace thermal protection.
The work centers on synthesizing silica, alumina, and carbon-based aerogels, often combined with fibers or nanoparticles to enhance mechanical strength and thermal stability. Key methods include sol-gel processing, ambient pressure drying, and electrospinning to create nanofibrous structures. The resulting materials are engineered for low thermal conductivity, high surface area, and resistance to extreme temperatures. Applications range from rigid insulation panels for buildings to flexible, flame-retardant fabrics for wearable thermal protection and aerospace shielding.
Aluminium research accounts for 1,196 papers in this group, representing 0.8% of all tracked aluminium research. Silicon contributes 641 papers, and Carbon adds 355. The community publishes most frequently in Ceramics International, Journal of Non-Crystalline Solids, and Journal of Sol-Gel Science and Technology. Recent work continues to focus on flexible aerogel fabrication, superelastic ceramic aerogels, and multifunctional composites with synergistic hydrophobic and flame-retardant properties.