Exploring the Versatility of Aerogels: Broad Applications in Biomedical Engineering, Astronautics, Energy Storage, Biosensing, and Current Progress

Heliyon. 2023 Dec 1;10(1):e23102. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23102. eCollection 2024 Jan 15.

Abstract

Aerogels are unique and extremely porous substances with fascinating characteristics such as ultra-low density, extraordinary surface area, and excellent thermal insulation capabilities. Due to their exceptional features, aerogels have attracted significant interest from various fields, including energy, environment, aerospace, and biomedical engineering. This review paper presents an overview of the trailblazing research on aerogels, aiming at their preparation, characterization, and applications. Various methods of aerogel synthesis, such as sol-gel, supercritical drying, are discussed. Additionally, recent progress in the characterization of aerogel structures, including their morphology, porosity, and thermal properties, are extensively reviewed. Finally, aerogel's utilizations in numerous disciplines, for instance, energy storage, thermal insulation, catalysis, environmental remedy, and biomedical applications, are summarized. This review paper provides a comprehensive understanding of aerogels and their prospective uses in diverse fields, highlighting their unique properties for future research and development.

Keywords: Adsorption; Aerogels; Magnetic Aerogel; Sol-gel; Thermal insulation.

Publication types

  • Review