Work

Mechanical structure–property relations in flexible silica-aerogels

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Flexible aerogels exhibit unique mechanical properties, yet standardisation in their testing methodologies remains limited. This study investigates the tensile and compressive behaviour of flexible aerogels through experimental and computational approaches. Cyclic compression tests are performed to assess damage evolution, while digital image correlation is utilised to measure lateral strain and evaluate the influence of different spraying patterns on strain measurement accuracy. Challenges associated with tensile and compressive testing are critically analysed, highlighting inconsistencies in current practices. Finite element modelling is employed to examine the role of friction in inducing the barreling effect under compressive loads. The findings underscore the necessity for standardised mechanical testing protocols for flexible aerogels and provide insights into their deformation behaviour under various loading conditions.

Source: Mechanics of Materials

DOI: 10.1016/j.mechmat.2025.105510

Authors: Max Zinke, Barbara Milow, Gunnar Seide, Ameya Rege

Institutions: Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V. (DLR), Maastricht University, University of Cologne, University of Twente

Language: English

Topic: Aerogels and thermal insulation

Subfield: Spectroscopy

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,850

OpenAlex ID: W4414569434

FWCI: 0.996

Cites: 24

Cited by: 4

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