Metal oxide aerogels for high-temperature applications

Aerogels are three-dimensional hierarchical nanoporous materials with many applications depending on their unique properties. Although silica aerogels have been studied extensively and industrialized, they cannot withstand high temperatures exceeding 650 °C for a long period. Metal oxide aerogels are the best candidates for high-temperature applications due to their excellent thermal and chemical stability. Among them, alumina, zirconia and titania aerogels show the best thermal stability and have drawn great attention in recent years. This paper overviews single-component metal oxide (alumina, zirconia, titania aerogels, and other metal oxide aerogels) and composite metal oxide aerogels (multicomponent composite aerogels and mechanical reinforced aerogels), including their preparation, characterization, and properties in high-temperature applications, to provide a helpful resource for researchers and technicians. Graphical Abstract