Abstract
Clay aerogels are ultra-low density materials formed by the freeze-drying of aqueous clay gels. While unmodified clay aerogels exhibit generally poor mechanical properties, incorporation of polymers into these structures can greatly increase their strengths and moduli; such polymer/clay aerogel composites have potential for use in a range of structural and insulation applications. Polymer/clay aerogel composites were formed by a new process in which water-soluble thermoset epoxy precursors are reacted within a clay hydrogel, which is then freeze-dried to produce the polymer/clay aerogel composites. The compressive properties of these polymer/clay aerogel composites greatly exceed those of plain clay aerogels; moreover, some of these composites exhibit novel elastomeric behavior, withstanding and recovering large amounts of compressive strain without failure or significant permanent deformation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
