The Global Aerogel market is expected to grow significantly at a CAGR of 35.86 percent from 2015-2019 owing to the emergence of certain trends during the forecast period.
What is Aerogel?
Aerogel, popularly known as frozen smoke, is derived from gel. Aerogel can withstand pressure of up to 4,000 times its own weight. It is an excellent thermal insulator because of its high internal surface area, while its low density makes it light in weight. Air cavities in the material give it high adsorption properties.
Aerogel is a porous and lightweight solid polymer network with 95-99 percent gas content. It has low density, high thermal resistivity, and high strength-to-weight ratio. It is eco-friendly and sustainable in nature as it is recyclable.
TechNavio analysts identified three key trends that are helping to fuel the adoption of aerogel products, thereby fuelling market growth:
Emerging Applications and Increase in Number of Patents
Aerogel has huge scope for growth in various sectors and industries. Uses of aerogel as a shock absorber in safety and protective devices, as insulation in technical textiles for use in extreme weather conditions, and as fire extinguishers by fire fighters are emerging applications in the market. Use of aerogel in cold packaging technology is also being studied by market players. The high number of patents being filed for new uses of aerogel and the development of new aerogel-based products are expected to contribute to market growth.
Increased Investment in Research and Development
The Global Aerogel market is growing rapidly as vendors are keen on commercializing aerogel; to this end, key players are investing heavily in R&D to develop aerogel with special properties. Aerogel is expected to have a significant impact on sustainable and green development with governments of many countries supporting the Aerogel industry through grants and subsidies.
Increased Use as Substitute for Fiberglass and Glass Windows
Aerogel is replacing fiberglass as an alternative to traditional insulation material. Studies have shown that a quarter-inch of aerogel can match the insulation capacity of three inches of fiberglass. The hydrophobic property of aerogel can allow the prevention of mold growth by repelling water vapor; this makes it an ideal choice for wall insulation.
Other properties of aerogel such as its transparency, light weight, and high thermal performance make it a suitable material for windows. An aerogel window consists of a double-pane glass window with a layer of aerogel in between, which would provide the same insulation as 10-20 glass panes.
