Progress in silica aerogel-containing materials for buildings’ thermal insulation

• DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2021.122815
• Publication Date: 2021-03-18T14:31:41Z
• Authors: Alyne Lamy-Mendes; Ana Dora Rodrigue...; Patrícia Alves; Paulo Santos; Luisa Durães
• Keywords: Retrofitting; Glazing; Building envelope; Building Insulation

Abstract Silica aerogels hold remarkable properties, particularly their translucence/transparency and extremely low thermal conductivity and density, for buildings thermal insulation purpose. Incorporated in composites or framing systems, they reduce the overall weight of the building envelope while increasing its thermal resistance, being especially valuable for energy-efficient retrofitting solutions, spanning from covering facades to window panes. This review presents the production process of silica aerogels in brief, their relevant properties regarding building’s needs, and a full survey of last years’ scientific achievements on silica aerogel-containing materials for buildings, such as panels, blankets, cement, mortars, concrete, glazing systems, solar collector covers, among others.