Aerogel thermal coatings for enhanced insulating windows and curtain walls
Innovative transparent cellulose/silica composite aerogels enhance insulation in building envelopes, significantly reducing energy loss through windows. These aerogels exhibit high transparency and low thermal conductivity, improving thermal efficiency and occupant comfort.
Overview
This solution introduces an innovative approach to improving building insulation through the use of transparent cellulose/silica composite aerogels. Designed for application in window and curtain wall systems, these aerogels significantly enhance thermal insulation, reducing energy loss and increasing occupant comfort. By addressing the thermal bridging issues common in traditional window systems, these aerogels offer an advanced alternative to conventional insulating materials.
Technical specifications
The cellulose/silica composite aerogels are manufactured using a two-step sol–gel process followed by supercritical CO2 drying. The resulting material features a low density (0.093–0.170 g/cm³) and a high specific surface area (660.87–1089.70 m²/g). It boasts impressive mechanical properties with a compressive strength of 18.74 MPa and tensile strength of 1.54 MPa, alongside a low thermal conductivity of 0.0188 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹. The aerogels also maintain high transparency (91.7%) and excellent flame retardancy, making them ideal for building applications where both performance and safety are crucial.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 3, this technology is in the early stages of development, with foundational research and laboratory testing completed. Future validation will focus on optimizing the manufacturing process and integrating the aerogel coatings into building systems for real-world performance evaluation.
About Columbia University
Columbia University is a comprehensive private research university in New York City, combining an Ivy League academic profile with globally engaged scholarship and professional education. Its integration with a major hospital system through Columbia University Irving Medical Center and NewYork-Presbyterian enables clinical collaboration, access to diverse patient populations, and regulated studies at scale. State-of-the-art laboratories and shared core facilities across the Morningside and Manhattanville campuses support co-located industry projects, while proximity to New York’s finance, media, and healthcare ecosystems streamlines talent pipelines and pilot deployments. Industry engages via sponsored research, affiliate programs, executive education, and convenings that connect faculty expertise with corporate R&D priorities. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, and DoD, alongside New York State and philanthropic sources. Columbia Technology Ventures provides IP management, licensing, startup support, and translational funding mechanisms that lower barriers to commercialization.
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