Abstract
Al2O3 aerogels are widely employed in heat insulation and flame retardancy because of their unique combination of low thermal conductivity and exceptional high-temperature stability. However, the mechanical properties of Al2O3 aerogel are poor, and the preparation time is considerably long. In this study, we present a simple and scalable approach to construct monolithic Pal/Al2O3 composite aerogels using solvothermal treatment instead of traditional solvent replacement, which remarkably shortened the preparation time. Subsequently, to obtain stable superhydrophobicity (θ > 152°), the Pal/Al2O3 aerogel was modified by gas-phase modification method. The obtained Pal/Al2O3 composite aerogels demonstrate the integrated properties of low density (0.078–0.106 g/cm3), low thermal conductivity (1000 °C, 0.143 W/(m·K)), good mechanical properties (Young's modulus, 1.6 MPa), and good heat resistance. The monolithic Pal/Al2O3 composite aerogels with improved mechanical performance and improved thermal stability can show great potential in the field of thermal insulation.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have