Research Progress on Aerogels as Transparent Insulation Materials

摘要

Solar Energy is a clean and renewable source. Transparent insulation materials are essential for high solar transmittance and low thermal loss in passive solar usage such as building window systems and solar collectors. This paper gives a short review on aerogel, an excellent candidate for transparent insulation materials due to its unique properties. Synthesis of monolithic and granular forms of aerogels is briefly described. Optical and thermal properties of aerogels are discussed. Typical applications and demonstration projects are summarized. The outlook of research and applications is also provided.