Aerogel: The “invisible guardian” of future life, unlocking the innovative power in ten key fields.

I. Transportation: Dual Innovation in Safety and Efficiency

In electric vehicles, aerogel’s ultra-low thermal conductivity (0.018 W/m·K) ensures stable operation between -20°C and 60°C, reducing thermal runaway risks and extending battery life. Aerogel insulation sheets improve inter-cell isolation efficiency by 80% while lowering vehicle weight—supporting longer ranges.

In rail and marine applications, aerogel composites block heat and noise, reducing insulation thickness by 30% and enabling lighter, more space-efficient transport designs.

II. Urban Heating Networks: The “Green Artery” of Smart Pipelines

Traditional heating pipelines can lose up to 85% of heat. Aerogel buried insulation pipes limit losses to just 2%, well below the 10% global standard. With only one-fifth the thickness of conventional materials, aerogel improves construction efficiency by 50%, reduces earthwork by half, and cuts lifecycle costs by 40%. This technology is driving the shift toward zero-carbon heating infrastructure.

III. Cogeneration: Insulation Armor for High-Temperature Industries

In power plants, pipelines operating between 100°C–500°C pose safety and energy challenges. Aerogel felt withstands up to 650°C, retains ≥99% water repellency, and reduces heat loss by 50%. Its A1 fire resistance also prevents flame spread, reinforcing industrial safety.

IV. High-Temperature Kilns: Durability and Energy Efficiency

For steel and ceramics, kilns exceeding 1000°C require extreme protection. Basalt-fiber reinforced SiO₂ aerogel composites expand the working range (-200°C to 700°C), triple thermal shock resistance, extend kiln life by 30%, and cut fuel consumption by 20%.

V. Petrochemicals: Corrosion and Cost Solutions

Pipelines carrying heavy oil (200–600°C) corrode insulation easily. Aerogel’s neutral pH and 99.6% water repellency eliminate this risk. Lightweight aerogel increases pipeline density by 15%, improves construction efficiency by 40%, and reduces maintenance costs by 50%.

VI. Aerospace and Military: The “Life Barrier” in Extreme Environments

Aerogel’s performance is equivalent to 1 cm protecting like 30 layers of glass. High-silica fiber/aerogel composites withstand hydrocarbon fires at 1100°C for 120 minutes, keeping inner surfaces at just 259°C. These properties support spacesuits, nuclear submarines, and stealth aircraft, redefining safety and defense technologies.

VII. LNG Storage and Transportation: Absolute Defense at -162°C

Traditional insulation fails under vibration and deformation. Aerogel, with 99% water repellency and A1-level fire resistance, triples cold insulation efficiency, eliminates cold bridging, and passes stringent marine transport tests. By 2025, the LNG aerogel market is expected to surpass 3.7 billion RMB.

VIII. Building Insulation: From “Energy Black Hole” to “Green Shell”

Buildings generate 51% of global carbon emissions. A 2 mm aerogel coating matches the insulation of 35 mm rock wool, reduces wall weight by 70%, and lowers indoor temperatures by 8°C. Aerogel panels offer 70-year lifespans and save nearly 48% of gas use, reshaping green building standards.

IX. Electronics: Thermal Management in the Miniaturization Era

With conductivity of 0.033 W/m·K, aerogel can withstand 1000°C while being thin and cuttable—ideal for microelectronics. Xiaomi’s aerogel phone cooling film reduced CPU temperature by 12°C, signaling a revolution in consumer electronics thermal management.

X. Biomedical: The Nano Guardian of Life Sciences

Cellulose acetate aerogels (0.73 MPa strength, 0.033 W/m·K insulation) provide safe carriers for vaccine cold chains. Biodegradable aerogels also support bone scaffolds and regenerative medicine, enabling cell growth by controlling pore structures.

Conclusion

From batteries to buildings, from kilns to spacecraft, aerogel is the invisible guardian of safety and sustainability. Its unmatched properties and adaptability across ten key fields are redefining industries and daily life. With ongoing innovation, aerogel is set to become a cornerstone of the carbon-neutral era.