Aerogel coatings: A nanoscale all - around protection solution that redefines surface thermal insulation

2025-04-25
Aerogel

In an era when the world is pursuing high efficiency, energy conservation, and protection in extreme environments, aerogel coatings, known as the "breathable thermal insulation armor," are triggering a revolution in surface protection. This functional coating, composed of nanoscale silica aerogel particles, with an ultra - low thermal conductivity of 0.015W/(m·K), wide - temperature adaptability from - 200℃ to 1300℃, and properties such as Class A fire - resistance, hydrophobicity, and moisture - proofing, has become an ideal choice for fields such as construction, industry, and electronics. This article deeply analyzes how aerogel coatings achieve "thin coating, strong protection" through their nanoporous structure, providing lightweight and long - life thermal insulation solutions for different scenarios.

I. Core Performance: Rewriting Surface Protection Standards

1. Ultimate Thermal Insulation: Millimeter-Level Thickness Subverts Conventional Surface Protection

Ultra-Low Thermal Conductivity: Thermal conductivity is as low as 0.015 W/(m·K), only 1/10 that of traditional coatings and 1/3 that of rock wool. A 2mm coating provides the equivalent insulation of a 3cm rock wool board, reducing heat transfer at the source.

Wide Temperature Range: Structural stability remains even at -200°C in liquid nitrogen. Even with a 1300°C propane flame, the backside temperature rise rate is ≤ 2.8°C/min, meeting aerospace-grade high-temperature protection requirements.

2. Safety: Double protection with fireproofing and hydrophobicity

A1 Non-Flammability Certification: Passes UL-1709 fire testing, and does not burn or drip when exposed to open flames, preventing the spread of fire. It is particularly suitable for high-risk applications such as petrochemicals and power plants. 99% Hydrophobicity: The nano-scale pore structure effectively blocks water vapor, with a surface water absorption rate of less than 5%. This effectively prevents condensation in high-humidity coastal areas and low-temperature cold storage environments, extending the substrate's service life by over 30%.

3. Lightweight and Durable: Combining lightweight and longevity.

Thin Coating: The coating is only 0.5-3mm thick and weighs less than one-fifth of traditional insulation. It is suitable for weight-sensitive applications such as drones and new energy vehicles, improving load-bearing efficiency.

Excellent Anti-Aging Performance: The coating has undergone 2000 hours of weathering testing with no cracking or chalking, and boasts an outdoor service life of up to 15 years, three times that of ordinary coatings.

4. Intelligent Adaptability: Compatible with Multiple Substrates, Expanding Functionality.

Universal Adhesion: It securely adheres to metal, concrete, glass, plastic, and other materials without complex pre-treatment, improving application efficiency by 50%.

Customizable Formula: Antibacterial, conductive, and self-cleaning properties can be added upon request. For example, a specialized coating for photovoltaic panels can reduce module temperature by 5°C and increase power generation efficiency by 3%.


II. Diverse Applications: From Architecture to Aerospace, it's versatile.

1. Building Energy Saving: Temperature Control Every Wall

Exterior Wall Insulation: In passive house projects, a 2mm-thick aerogel coating replaces a 10cm-thick traditional insulation layer, reducing indoor temperature fluctuations to ≤3°C and winter heating energy consumption by 40% without occupying indoor space. It's particularly suitable for the "flat to slope" renovation of existing buildings.

Roof Insulation: Reflects 30% of solar radiation, reducing the top floor's temperature by 8°C in summer and reducing air conditioning loads. Combined with waterproof coatings, it creates an integrated "insulation + waterproofing" solution, shortening construction time by 40%.

2. Industrial Protection: "Cool Armor" for High-Temperature Equipment

Pipe and Tank Insulation: On refinery pipes operating at 500°C, the coating reduces heat loss by 60%, lowering the surface temperature from 80°C to 45°C, eliminating the risk of burns for workers. In LNG tanks operating at -162°C, it eliminates the cold bridge effect and doubles the cooling efficiency. Power Equipment Protection: The surface coating on transformers and charging stations can withstand temperatures up to 200°C, preventing insulation aging and extending equipment life by 20%. Furthermore, the coating resists corona discharge, ensuring safety in high-voltage environments.

3. Electronics and New Energy: Micro-Space Thermal Management Experts

5G Base Station Heat Dissipation: A 0.3mm coating on the chip surface conducts heat quickly, reducing junction temperature by 12°C, addressing overheating issues with high-density integrated circuits and improving device stability.

Power Battery Thermal Insulation: At -30°C, the coating ensures a battery pack temperature difference of ≤5°C, improving charge and discharge efficiency by 15% and reducing the risk of thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries. It is currently used in battery packs for a domestic electric vehicle brand.

4. Special Scenarios: Ensuring Survival in Extreme Environments

Aerospace and Military: The surface coating on satellites can withstand temperatures as low as -190°C in space and as high as 150°C in sunlight, ensuring the normal operation of precision instruments. Military vehicle coatings can reduce infrared signatures and enhance concealment.

Cold chain logistics: The coating on the inner wall of refrigerated trucks can reduce the temperature fluctuation inside the box to ≤1°C, replacing the traditional foam insulation layer, reducing weight by 30%, and increasing the driving range by 10%, helping to control the temperature throughout the transportation of vaccines and fresh products.


III. Technological Advantages: Nanotechnology Shapes Core Competitiveness

1. Nanopore Thermal Insulation Principle

Aerogel particles form a three-dimensional nanonetwork (pore size 2-50 nanometers), restricting the movement of air molecules and blocking convective heat transfer. The nano-skeleton structure extends the heat conduction path, increasing thermal resistance fivefold compared to traditional materials.

2. Environmentally Friendly and Convenient Application

Water-based formula: This water-based formula is VOC-free and EU REACH-certified. It has a non-irritating odor during application, making it suitable for environmentally sensitive locations such as hospitals and schools.

Room-temperature Curing Technology: Eliminating the need for high-temperature baking, the coating can be applied in temperatures ranging from -10°C to 40°C, making it suitable for on-site spraying of large outdoor structures. A single construction team can cover up to 500 square meters per day.

3. International Certifications and Customization Capabilities

Certifications and Standards: Certified according to ISO 1716 fire resistance and ASTM C177 thermal conductivity, and compliant with US ICC-ES and EU ETAG 004 standards, ensuring global project compliance.

Full-Chain Service: We provide comprehensive services from laboratory samples to 10,000-ton mass production. Density (10 - 50kg/m³), color and special functions can be customized according to customer needs.