An improved method for preparing monolithic aerogels based on methyltrimethoxysilane at ambient pressure Part I: Process development and macrostructures of the aerogels

In this paper, we introduced an improved method for producing methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) based aerogels at ambient pressure. The method developed is able to produce monolithic aerogels with low bulk densities over a range of the precursor concentrations at ambient pressure without the need for any solvent exchange and surface modification. This has been achieved through specifically tailored processing conditions according to the MeOH/MTMS molar ratios used. The effect of the key processing parameters on alcogel formation and macrostructures of the aerogels has been systematically investigated for achieving minimum volume shrinkage and bulk density. The specific process developed for MTMS based aerogel has not been reported in previous literature, and it is of significance in improving the practical feasibility of the aerogel fabrication.

Graphical abstractThe images and bulk densities of the MTMS derived aerogels prepared at different gelation and ageing temperatures.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► An improved method for fabricating MTMS derived aerogels at ambient pressure. ► Effect of key processing conditions on alcogel formation and aerogel’s macrostructure. ► Monolithic aerogels with bulk densities 0.065 ∼ 0.076 g/cm3 at MeOH/MTMS = 27 to 36.