Nanoporous Aerogels for Defense and Aerospace Applications

Abstract

The choice of materials in strategic projects is a challenge due to very stringent requirements in size, weight, and power constraints. Most of these materials are specifically designed and developed to obtain unique properties and hence belong to special class of materials. ``Aerogel'' is one of such unique materials possessing extreme properties together. The ultralightweight and highly nanoporous nature give rise to excellent insulation for heat, sound, and electricity. It is possible to tailor-make them for desired chemical composition; physical forms such as monolith, powder, granules, sheets, etc.; surface chemistry to make them hydrophilic or hydrophobic; and so on. Aerogels can also serve as a host matrix for other materials to make lightweight and functional composites. Such flexibility in aerogel manufacturing can give customized solutions to many tactical requirements in the strategic field.