Development of Glazing Systems with Silica Aerogel

The implementation of innovative materials for energy saving is among the most compelling topics in the building sector worldwide. In this regard, silica aerogels have received an increasing interest in the last years thanks to their exceptionally low thermal conductivity, generally around 0.01-0.02 W/(m·K). Aerogel panels laminated to drywall boards have started being adopted in highly energy-efficient buildings. However, the most promising application of silica aerogels seems to be in highly-insulating glazing systems. During the last years, double pane glazing systems with both granular and monolithic aerogel in the glass cavity have been developed and tested. Firstly, this paper reviews existing glazing systems designed with monolithic panels or granular aerogel and show their possible applications. Constrains of these systems, such as the low light transmissibility, cost, and fragility, are discussed. Then, the paper describes the development of a glazing system designed for the retrofitting of an educational building. Lighting and energy simulations allowed comparing window design options with different percentages of glazing area with aerogel. The analysis of the tradeoff between the goals of guaranteeing sufficient daylighting, clear perception of the external environment, and energy saving helps finalizing the design of the new monolithic aerogel glazing system.