Analysis of heat treatment forced thermal and structural changes of aerogel insulation blanket – a case study

Aerogels, renowned for their ultralight structure and low thermal conductivity, have emerged as highly effective super-insulation materials. This paper examines their thermal properties, thermal stability, and various engineering applications. "Super Insulation Materials" such as vacuum insulation panels and aerogels, are frequently used to describe these materials. Aerogels and related super-insulation materials (SIMs) have garnered significant attention due to their ultra-low thermal conductivity and applications in building, industrial, and cryogenic insulation. Although most long-term thermal parameters are unknown, the aforementioned goods have far superior thermal insulating qualities. In the paper, we will discuss the research on the thermal stability of Slentex aerogel blanket samples as they mature through heat treatments (150 °C and 250°C for 1 day). Various techniques will be used to monitor the changes in the thermal characteristics (thermal diffusion and volumetric heat capacity). Thermal conductivity measurement results show a stable thermal insulation capability, while the specific heat capacity changes slightly. From these thermal values, diffusion and volumetric heat capacity were derived. The results showed a decrease in thermal diffusivity of about 3-4%, while the volumetric heat capacity increased. Microscopic and visual analysis revealed surface oxidation, while the DSC results presented a substantial and continuous increase (strong endothermic process) in the heat flow curve.