Contact:

  • Arlon Hunt
  • (510) 486-5370

Aerogels

Silica aerogels contain primary particles of 2-5 nm in diameter. Silica particles of such a small size have an extraordinarily large surface-to-volume ratio (~2 x 109 m-1) and a corresponding high specific surface area (~900 m2/g). It is not surprising, therefore, that the chemistry of the interior surface of an aerogel plays a dominant role in its chemical and physical behavior. It is this property that makes aerogels attractive materials for use as catalysts, catalyst substrates, and adsorbents.

Although Berkeley Lab's research into aerogels ended in 2004, you are invited to browse an archival website of past research in this area.

Carbon Ring Around Nickel Particle
A flower lying on a piece of silica aerogel being held over a flame.
Silica Aerogel/Magnetite Nanocomposite