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Description
Aerogels have ultra-high nano-porous structures, which enabled them to be optimal candidates for thermal protecting materials. However, most aerogels are mechanically brittle and are not suitable for thermal insulation of structures with complex geometries where material’s flexibility is required. Rather than "inducing" the flexibility in the structure, i-FACES will produce single component “inherently flexible aerogels” based on classes of polyolefins and polyvinyls with inherent mechanical flexibility at the ambient thermal conditions. Also, advanced composites of the developed aerogels with smart functionalities based on thermochromic materials will be developed. Furthermore, recycled materials will be utilized in this research for the creation of aerogels with more ecological impact.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address the limitations of traditional aerogels, which are typically brittle and unsuitable for insulating complex shapes.
The project developed "inherently flexible aerogels" using polyolefins and polyvinyls, and also created advanced composites with smart functionalities. They utilized recycled materials to enhance the ecological impact. The project involved synthesis, functionalization, characterization, and modeling of the aerogels.
The project successfully produced unique flexible aerogel samples and achieved all planned milestones. They also developed new functionalization concepts and submitted two patent applications. The project engaged young scientists and generated new results like publications, samples, and workshops. The results are ready for further research as well as for further development for specific applications within the wider scientific community and industries interested in thermal insulation and energy-efficient structures.
Summary of bilateral results
The bilateral collaboration provided a unique opportunity for international team cooperation, fostering functional synergy, complementarity of competences, and building strong relations and trust. Looking ahead, there are exceptional scientific and application opportunities for further collaboration, with several small projects already submitted with industrial partners focused on energy and environmental sensors, while POLPUR continues developing the functional sample and exploring new grant opportunities and commercialization efforts.