I. What is Aerogel?

A nanoporous "solid smoke"—a lightweight material with a 3D nanoparticle network, filled with gas. Its density can be as low as 1.5mg/cm³ (2.3x air density). Silica aerogel, common and translucent pale blue, has ultra-low density and high porosity.

Its nanoporous structure gives three key strengths:

Thermal insulation: Blocks over 90% of heat (lower conductivity than air).

Mechanical performance: Low density but absorbs impact (e.g., bulletproof materials).

Versatility: High surface area enables adsorption/catalysis; low refractive index suits optical devices.

II. From Lab to Real-World Use

Tech breakthroughs: From costly to accessible

Aerogel was first made in 1931 via supercritical drying, but high costs (due to high-temp/pressure gear) kept it lab-bound. Recent advances in ambient pressure/freeze-drying cut costs by 90%, enabling mass production.

From aerospace to daily life

Once only for aerospace insulation (e.g., NASA crafts), it now works in building insulation (3mm aerogel = 20cm traditional insulation), new energy (boosts lithium battery safety by 40%), and more.