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.
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.
Geographically, North America consumed the maximum quantity of silica aerogel in 2015 and the U.S. emerged as the largest consumer in the world. This is due to the comprehensive research and development (R&D) conducted by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on silica aerogel. On account of its exceptional thermal insulation property and lightness, the aerogel was utilized by NASA for the Mars Exploration Rover Mission. The space agency is also working toward curtailing the production cost of silica aerogel to make it viable for commercial purposes.
On the other hand, the European silica aerogel market is expected to utilize this aerogel at the fastest pace in the coming years. This can be attributed to the escalating usage of silica aerogel in the construction sector. Moreover, the implementation of energy-efficient policies by the European Union (EU) that obligate every building in the member nations to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions will fuel the demand for this material in the region.
Thus, the excellent insulation and eco-friendly properties of silica aerogel will increase its application in the coming years.
