aerogel Definition
- 1a highly porous, lightweight material with a gel-like structure, in which the liquid component of the gel has been replaced with gas
- 2a solid material that is mostly made up of air and has very low density
Using aerogel: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "aerogel" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Aerogels are used in insulation for spacecraft.
Example
The aerogel's low density makes it an ideal material for absorbing sound.
Example
Aerogels can be made from a variety of materials, including silica, carbon, and metal oxides.
aerogel Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for aerogel
- frozen smoke
- solid smoke
Phrases with aerogel
superinsulating aerogel
an aerogel with high thermal insulation properties
Example
The superinsulating aerogel was used to insulate the Mars Rover.
Example
Carbon aerogels have potential applications in energy storage and catalysis.
Example
Silica aerogels are used in thermal insulation for buildings and industrial equipment.
Origins of aerogel
from 'aero-' meaning air and 'gel' meaning gel
Summary: aerogel in Brief
An 'aerogel' [air-oh-jel] is a highly porous, lightweight material with a gel-like structure, in which the liquid component of the gel has been replaced with gas. It is mostly made up of air and has very low density. Aerogels are used in insulation for spacecraft and have potential applications in energy storage and catalysis. Phrases like 'superinsulating aerogel,' 'carbon aerogel,' and 'silica aerogel' denote specific types of aerogels.
