Aerogel glazing systems for building applications: A review

A comprehensive review of aerogel glazing systems is provided, focusing on the main properties of interest in building applications. Both granular and monolithic forms are taken into account, even if only the former is available on the market. Reviewed studies regard the material itself and of the assembled glazing systems are analysed. After a short description of the fabrication process, thermal and optical properties are presented, in order to provide a set of useful data on the most important parameters affecting energy and lighting performance of buildings. Not-energy related aspects, as quality of lighting and acoustic properties are also investigated, being relevant for the successful building integration. Numerical analyses and field studies show the potential of the technology to achieve relevant energy savings with respect to conventional glazing systems, especially in cold dominated climates. Long term performance studies confirm the reliability of the technology, with minor functionality issues to be solved. Costs of aerogel are still considerably higher when compared to conventional glazing units, however the fully developed technology may become competitive with the performance required in a zero energy building perspective.