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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Method to produce alumina aerogels having porosities greater than 80 percent

Patent ·
OSTI ID:1174490

A two-step method for producing monolithic alumina aerogels having porosities of greater than 80 percent. Very strong, very low density alumina aerogel monoliths are prepared using the two-step sol-gel process. The method of preparing pure alumina aerogel modifies the prior known sol method by combining the use of substoichiometric water for hydrolysis, the use of acetic acid to control hydrolysis/condensation, and high temperature supercritical drying, all of which contribute to the formation of a polycrystalline aerogel microstructure. This structure provides exceptional mechanical properties of the alumina aerogel, as well as enhanced thermal resistance and high temperature stability.

Research Organization:
The Regents of the University of California, Oakland, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
Assignee:
The Regents of the University of California (Oakland, CA)
Patent Number(s):
6,620,458
Application Number:
09/970,251
OSTI ID:
1174490
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

References (2)

Synthesis of high porosity, monolithic alumina aerogels journal June 2001
Preparation of heat-resistant alumina aerogels journal November 1993