Robust and Hydrophobic Silica/Polyimide Aerogel with Pomegranate-like Structure for Thermal Insulation and Flame Retardancy up to 1300 °C
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The inherent brittleness of silica aerogels has hindered their application in thermal protection systems. To overcome this limitation, we developed a silica/polyimide composite aerogel with a bio-inspired “pomegranate-like” structure through in situ gelation. The strategic integration of polyimide nanofibers into the silica matrix created an interlocking network that immobilized silica particles, effectively resolving the mechanical fragility. By modulating the polyimide precursor (polyamic acid) concentration to 0.08 g/cm3 through polyimide nanofiber reinforcement, the compressive strength reached 2.86 MPa—12 times greater than that of unmodified silica aerogel. The material demonstrated multifunctional performance: exceptional flame resistance (withstanding 1300 °C flame for 20 min with self-extinguishing behavior), high hydrophobicity (123° water contact angle), and ultralow thermal conductivity (0.035 W/(m·K)). This synergistic combination of tunable mechanics, thermal stability, and insulation properties positions the composite as an advanced solution for next-generation thermal protection materials.
Source: Molecules
Authors: Junyong Chen, Defang Pan
Institution: Qilu Normal University
Language: English
Subfield: Spectroscopy
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
OpenAlex ID: W4409373277