Aerogel is an extraordinary, ultra-lightweight material with unique properties and versatile applications. It is created by replacing the liquid component of a traditional gel with gas, resulting in a structure that is over 90% air by volume. This air resides in extremely small nanopores, while the remaining structure consists of a three-dimensional network of interconnected silica solid clusters. This composition makes aerogel one of the lightest solid materials known and the most effective insulator available.

The aerogel’s structure is characterized by an open-celled, mesoporous network of interconnected nanostructures. The pores, which range from 2 to 50 nanometers in diameter, trap gas within, significantly reducing heat transfer. This network of nanopores minimizes conduction, convection, and radiation, allowing aerogel to excel in thermal insulation. The Knudsen effect, where gas molecules within small pores have limited movement, further enhances aerogel's insulating performance.

Despite their fragile appearance, aerogels are surprisingly strong due to their three-dimensional porous network. Their properties, including density, transparency, mechanical strength, and thermal conductivity, can be precisely controlled through the production process. For instance, silica aerogels are often transparent with a bluish tint, while carbon aerogels are black and more electrically conductive.

Aerogels are among the lightest solid materials, with some formulations having a density as low as 0.0011 g/cm³.

Aerogels are highly effective thermal insulators, thanks to their porous structure, which minimizes both conductive and convective heat transfer.

Aerogels have a large specific surface area, up to 3200 m²/g, making them ideal for applications in filtration and catalysis.

Despite their low density, aerogels can bear significant loads due to their dendritic structure, although they may be brittle under extreme pressure.

Aerogels are naturally hydrophilic, meaning they absorb moisture, but can be treated chemically to become hydrophobic, protecting their structure from water-induced degradation

Due to their excellent thermal properties, aerogels are commonly used in aerospace applications, such as insulating spacecraft and space suits, as well as in industrial settings, including LNG storage and high-energy piping.

Aerogels improve energy efficiency in various systems, such as refining plants, petrochemical facilities, and district heating systems.

Aerogels are also utilized in products like insulated jackets and protective clothing, where their lightweight yet effective insulation is highly valued.

The high surface area of aerogels makes them suitable for environmental applications such as filtration and pollutant removal.