Aerogel

Boz Altınay Construction Industry Inc.

What is Aerogel? The Lightest and Most Advanced Thermal Insulation Material.

In modern buildings where energy efficiency is paramount,  thermal insulation  is of great importance in terms of both comfort and cost.  Aerogel , which offers superior performance at much thinner thicknesses compared to traditional insulation materials , has become a revolutionary technology in the construction industry in recent years.


What is aerogel?

Aerogel is a silica-based material with over 90% air content. This property makes it known as both  the world’s lightest solid material  and  one of the materials with the lowest thermal conductivity  . Originally developed by NASA for space applications, aerogel is now used in many fields, from building insulation and automotive to petrochemical plants and cold chain logistics.


Technical Specifications of Aerogel

  • Thermal conductivity coefficient (λ):  0.013 – 0.020 W/mK (varies depending on product type)

  • Density:  60–150 kg/m³

  • Fire resistance:  Class A1 – A2 (according to EN 13501-1)

  • Vapor permeability:  High (breathable)

  • Thickness:  Can be produced with different layers starting from 3 mm.

  • Water repellency:  High hydrophobic structure.

  • Temperature resistance:  -200°C to +650°C


Advantages of Aerogel Insulation

✅  Ultra-Low Thermal Conductivity:
Provides the same insulation performance with a much thinner thickness compared to traditional insulation products on the market.

✅  Suitability for Small Spaces
: Especially in confined spaces, facade details, and pipe insulation, insulation can be applied without losing space.

✅  Fire Resistant:
With its high temperature resistant structure, it can be safely used in areas with a fire risk.

✅  Breathable Structure:
Thanks to its high vapor permeability, it prevents moisture buildup and protects the building’s health.

✅  Flexible and Practical Forms:
Can be produced in roll, blanket, sheet, or panel form. Can be embedded under plaster or integrated into the facade.

✅  Lightweight and Easy to Transport
: Its lightweight nature makes it easy to transport and install, and it does not add extra load to the structure.


Where is aerogel used?

📍  Exterior wall insulation systems
📍  Areas requiring thin insulation on interior walls
📍  Historical building restorations (to preserve wall thickness)
📍  Roof underlayment and pitched roof details
📍  In pipes and industrial plant lines
📍  Special areas requiring fire safety
📍  Cold chain, refrigerated transport and ship insulation


Things to Consider When Choosing Aerogel Insulation

  • The shape and thickness should be chosen to suit the application area   .

  • The product   must have certified fire resistance documents .

  • The binders or carrier layers contained within the aerogel can also affect product performance.

  • Reliable manufacturers with TSE, CE, and ISO  certifications should be preferred.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is aerogel?

Aerogel is an advanced insulation material that is more than 90% air, silica-based, and has very low thermal conductivity.

Where is aerogel insulation used?

It is used in facades, roofs, pipes, wall interiors, historical building restorations, and industrial lines.

Is aerogel non-flammable?

Yes. Aerogel is generally a fire-resistant material with a fire rating of A1 or A2.

Is aerogel insulation thick?

No. It provides superior insulation even in very thin layers. 1 cm of aerogel can perform equivalently to 5–6 cm of rock wool.