Multiple assembly strategies for silica aerogel-fiber combinations – A review. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mazrouei-Sebdani, Zahra; Naeimirad, Mohammadreza; Peterek, Stefan; Begum, Hasina; Galmarini, Sandra; Pursche, Franz; Baskin, Enes; Zhao, Shanyu; Gries, Thomas; Malfait, Wim J.
• Is Part Of: Materials & design. Volume 223(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Aerogels -- Fibers/textiles -- Porosity -- Nano-structures -- Insulation -- Mechanical properties; Materials -- Periodicals; Engineering design -- Periodicals; Matériaux -- Périodiques; Conception technique -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 620.11
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matdes.2022.111228
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-1275

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: Comprehensive review of all approaches used to assemble aerogel-fiber materials. "In situ sol-gel" and "via pre-formed aerogel" approaches are described and evaluated. Enhanced mechanical/physical properties are obtained while keeping low thermal conductivity. An overview of the market and future research trends are identified. Abstract: Silica aerogels have a unique structure that makes them promising materials for variable applications. However, they are brittle due to weak inter-particle necks, and also expensive. Combining aerogel with fibers can not only enhance the mechanical/insulation properties, but also reduce dust release, and ease practical application. The majority of review articles in this field have been on the aerogel/textile systems' application or on textile impregnation in silica sol utilizing the sol–gel technique, with a few papers also addressing the use of aerogel as filler. This review for the first time highlights all strategies to assemble silica aerogel with textile materials. For sol–gel approaches, the fibers can be impregnated in a silica precursor sol to form the aerogel in situ between the fibers, but the sol itself can also be spun into aerogel fibers. Other strategies employ pre-formed silica aerogel, mixed in polymer or solvent matrices/slurries, to form aerogel injected blankets, aerogel-filled material coated fibers, and aerogel-filled composite fibers. Aerogel particles-filled textile packages have also been proposed. The emerging activities on simulations of aerogel-fiber combinations are reviewed. The advantages/disadvantages of various approaches are evaluated, and the current market situation and an outlook for the future of the field are summarized.