Our aerogel monoliths are available in the highest quality. An aerogel is the ultimate in porous solid engineering, with applications that are inherently multifunctional. Alfa Chemistry's aerogel monolithic materials are highly porous silica-based materials with ultra-low density and thermal conductivity and ultra-high surface area. These materials are unique, in that their optical and surface properties can be tuned to meet a broad range of industrial needs, from construction and energy to pharmaceuticals and catalysis.
Specification
| Items | Parameters |
| Catalog | GEL-AM |
| Porosity | 90% – 95% |
| Density | 0.05 – 0.10 g/cm3 |
| Pore Diameter | 20 – 50 nm |
| Thermal Conductivity | <0.015 W/(m·K) |
| Specific Surface Area | 600 – 800 m2/g |
| Operating Temperature | -200 to 600°C |
| Available Colors | Colorless to pale blue transparent; white opaque; other customized colors |
*Note: The product parameters listed on the page are for reference only, and can be adjusted according to your actual needs.
Functional Advantages
Ultra-low Thermal Conductivity
The thermal conductivity of aerogel monoliths is<0.015 W/(m·K), making it one of the best-known insulators. The material is stable over a wide temperature range, from cryogenic (-200 °C) to high-temperature applications (up to 600 °C), allowing it to be used in a variety of harsh environments.
Surface and Optical Functionality
Aerogel monoliths from Alfa Chemistry can be produced with different surface chemistries, which can be adjusted to produce a hydrophilic or hydrophobic surface. Hydrophilic, transparent aerogels have a strong Rayleigh scattering effect, which is visually interesting and useful for applications such as optical displays and architectural design. Conversely, the hydrophobic, opaque versions are optimized for insulation and moisture-resistant applications.
Fig.1 Schematic representation of primary and secondary silica particles in silica aerogel monoliths[1].
Applications
- Thermal and Fire Insulation
Due to the ultra-low thermal conductivity and excellent thermal stability, aerogel monoliths are used in fireproofing and thermal insulation systems. In such applications, they provide superior heat insulation compared to traditional materials, helping to improve energy efficiency in buildings and industrial processes.
- Transparent Insulation for Glass Composites
Incorporating transparent aerogel blocks into window systems can significantly improve their thermal insulation performance while maintaining high light transmittance. This application is particularly relevant for architectural glazing where thermal performance, aesthetics, and natural lighting are all important considerations.
- Acoustic Dampening Solutions
Sound waves are also reduced when passed through aerogel monoliths. As a result, they can be employed as lightweight acoustic dampeners in a variety of sectors, including the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries.
The high surface area and controllable porosity of aerogel monoliths have made them an attractive option as a carrier for drug molecules in drug delivery applications. In such a case, aerogel can be loaded with active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), providing a controlled release while maintaining the structural stability of the aerogel.
Silica aerogels' high internal surface area and chemical inertness make them an ideal support for catalysts. By using aerogels as a carrier, catalytic species can be highly dispersed, improving the reaction efficiency in a variety of processes, such as petrochemical refining and environmental remediation.
Fig.2 Strategies for preparing drug-loaded aerogels. (A) Incorporating the drug into the gel solution; (B) Adding the drug into the solvent for loading in the gels by solvent diffusion; (C) Adding the drug during the SCF drying process; (D) Loading the drug into the pre-prepared aerogels by impregnation technique. Notation: Red dots represent the drug that is loaded in the aerogel carrier[2].
Why Choose Us?
Alfa Chemistry is proud to provide our customers with high-quality aerogel monoliths. In addition, you can customize the product to meet your actual needs in different sizes, morphologies, and densities. If you need help, please call us and we will deliver the product on time and on budget.
FAQs About Aerogel Monoliths
1. Can the density and pore size of the aerogel monoliths be customized for specific applications?
Yes, Alfa Chemistry can tailor the density and pore size distribution to meet the mechanical and functional requirements of your application.
2. Are these aerogels suitable for use in cryogenic environments?
Absolutely. The aerogel monoliths maintain structural integrity and insulating performance down to -200°C.
3. How does hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity impact the application of these aerogels?
Hydrophilic aerogels are ideal for optical and sensing applications, while hydrophobic variants provide superior moisture resistance for insulation and environmental barriers.
4. Are the aerogels fragile? Can they be mechanically reinforced?
While inherently fragile due to their porosity, Alfa Chemistry offers strategies for mechanical reinforcement through composite formation or hybrid material integration.
5. Is it possible to incorporate functional additives, such as dyes or nanoparticles, into the aerogel monoliths?
Yes, functionalization with dyes, nanoparticles, or other additives is feasible and can be customized during synthesis to impart additional functionalities such as photonic properties or catalytic activity.
6. What is the maximum size available for aerogel monoliths?
Sizes are customizable; however, there may be limitations based on the desired mechanical properties and handling requirements. Alfa Chemistry will consult on feasible dimensions per application.
7. Are there biomedical applications beyond drug delivery?
Yes, besides drug delivery, aerogel monoliths are being explored for tissue engineering scaffolds, biosensors, and wound dressings, subject to biocompatibility assessments.
8. What storage conditions are recommended for these aerogels?
Aerogel monoliths should be stored in a dry, ambient environment, preferably sealed from moisture for hydrophobic types, to maintain performance.
9. How does the Rayleigh scattering effect manifest visually?
In hydrophilic transparent aerogels, Rayleigh scattering imparts a blueish hue when exposed to light, creating an ethereal, luminous appearance valuable in design and display applications.
10. Do you provide technical support for integration of aerogel monoliths into industrial systems?
Yes, Alfa Chemistry offers comprehensive technical support, including consultation on material selection, customization, and integration strategies for various industrial sectors.
References
- Lin J, et al. A review of recent progress on the silica aerogel monoliths: synthesis, reinforcement, and applications. Journal of Materials Science. 2021. 56(18):1-22.
- Illanes-Bordomás C, et al. Aerogels as Carriers for Oral Administration of Drugs: An Approach towards Colonic Delivery. Pharmaceutics. 2023. 15(11), 2639.
Please kindly note that our products and services are for research use only.
