What is Aerogel?
Aerogels are synthetic porous materials derived from gels, where the liquid component has been replaced with gas, resulting in ultralight solids with extraordinary insulating and protective properties.
Revolutionary Properties
Aerogels possess a unique combination of characteristics that make them irreplaceable in critical applications.
Ultra-Lightweight
Among the lightest solid materials known, with density approaching that of air itself. The nanoporous structure is 90-97% air by volume.
Exceptional Insulation
World-class thermal conductivity, outperforming traditional insulation materials by 2-5x. Effective from -260°C to +650°C.
Nanoporous Structure
Interconnected pore network smaller than the mean free path of gas molecules, suppressing gaseous heat conduction.
Multi-Functional
Can be engineered with conductive, magnetic, or chemically reactive additives for EMI shielding, corrosion prevention, and more.
Manufacturing Process
Advanced sol-gel chemistry and controlled drying techniques create the nanoporous structure that defines aerogel performance.
Sol-Gel Formation
Silica precursors (TEOS/TMOS) undergo hydrolysis and condensation to form a colloidal sol, which gels into a three-dimensional network.
Aging & Strengthening
The gel is aged in solvent to strengthen the silica network through Ostwald ripening, increasing neck sizes between particles.
Surface Modification
Hydrophobic treatment with silylating agents (TMCS, HMDS, MTMS) replaces surface hydroxyl groups with non-polar organic groups.
Drying Process
Supercritical CO₂ or ambient pressure drying removes solvent while preserving the nanoporous structure, preventing collapse from capillary forces.
Composite Integration
Optional reinforcement with fibers (Kevlar, carbon, glass) or nanomaterials (graphene, MXenes) for enhanced mechanical and functional properties.
Why Choose ESAF Aerogel Technology?
ESAF TradeCo combines cutting-edge materials science with practical engineering to deliver aerogel solutions that meet the most stringent military, aerospace, and industrial requirements. Our products offer superior performance, proven reliability, and significant cost advantages.