Aerogels: A New Generation of High-Temperature Thermal Insulators for Power Plant Applications

High-temperature aerogels have attracted significant attention as promising insulating materials in the power industry due to their exceptional thermal insulation properties and low density. With recent advancements in production techniques, the thermal resistance of these aerogels has been significantly improved. Specifically, polyimide-based aerogels can withstand temperatures up to 1000 °C, zirconia-based aerogels up to 1300 °C, silica-based aerogels up to 1500 °C, alumina-based aerogels up to 1800 °C, and carbon-based aerogels can endure temperatures up to 2500 °C. This article systematically reviews recent advancements in the thermal insulation performance of these five materials. It also details the thermal resistance of aerogels and their thermal insulation mechanisms, examining the impact of doping elements on the thermal conductivity of aerogels. Furthermore, various methods for producing aerogels capable of withstanding high temperatures are consolidated. Finally, recent applications of these materials in power plant uses are presented. A thermal imaging survey of the furnace chimney, which was insulated with basalt fibers and aerogel, was conducted, and the temperature of the flue gases was controlled by determining the required ratio of natural gas and oxidizer flow. The results showed that aerogel outperformed basalt fibers in all key thermophysical properties.