Aerogels were invented in 1931 by an American scientist named Kistler. Originally this material was used as a flattening agent in paints, but became recognized as useful in a variety of different applications in the decades to come. From cosmetics to NASA re-entry vehicles, aerogels lend their incredible properties to a variety of industries. This week, we want to share with you how aerogels can be used as a highly-effective industrial insulation.
The Science Behind the “Gel”
The name “aerogel” may conjure up images of a sticky gelatin-like mess, but the reality is far from this. Aerogel is created by removing the moisture from a gel, while having it maintain its structure. The result is a cloud-like solid that is 99.8% air. This is because numerous tiny air pockets are formed during the production process, creating a complex, but delicate framework among the particles. Surprisingly, this structure allows this material to have impressive load-bearing properties in addition to being deceptively light.
Negating Heat Transfer
If you’ve been reading our articles for a while, you know that the most important factor that determines an insulation’s usefulness is its ability to prevent heat transfer. Aerogels are unique in that they are able to negate, or severely reduce, the movement of heat through two of the three processes of thermal transfer.
- Conduction. Due to the fact aerogels are made up of mostly insulating gas, and not solids or liquids, heat cannot transfer easily through collisions between molecules.
- Convection. Convection is the movement of heat through the air, but the lattice-like structure stops gases from circulating.
- Radiation. Unfortunately, electromagnetic waves can still pass through uninhibited. This makes aerogels poor radiative insulators.
Insulation Applications
The unique structure of aerogels makes them an effective insulator in both hot and cold applications. In fact, this material boasts the highest R-value of any insulating material at less weight and thickness. Construction, refineries, pipelines, and anywhere else extremely thin insulation is necessary. When used in insulation, aerogels need to be chemically treated so they can repel moisture instead of absorbing it and compromising its structure. In most cases, aerogels come in blanket form for ease of installation.
Aerogel is a versatile and highly effective insulation material. If your current insulation isn’t doing the job properly, you may want to consider having a professional installer replace it with aerogel blankets. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about this high-tech material and how it can benefit your facility. Contact us today to get started!
