Silica aerogels are a translucent nano-porous material. Due to this nano-porous structure, they have the lowest thermal conductivity among solid materials (as low as to 0.010 W/mK at room temperature). Because they are translucent and insulating, silica aerogels have potential applications in fenestration products. The Energy Information Agency (EIA) estimates that almost one-third of all building heat loss occurs through windows and doors. A homeowner spends money on heating in the winter and cooling in the summer due to the heat transfer to/from the environment through windows. Aerogel windows could minimize this heat transfer. The goal of my project is to build a prototype aerogel window and implement it in a model house. Simulation results predict that heat transfer through a wall with a window is reduced by 25-28% when an aerogel window is used in place of a glass window and aerogel strips are placed on the exterior face of wall studs. To achieve this goal, I researched methods for manufacturing large aerogel monoliths and experimented with different molds and process parameters to limit crack formation and produce sharp corners. A one-piece mold was used to produce high-quality aerogels which were then laser-cut to shape the aerogels and fabricate a prototype window. The final product is placed in a model home and thermal imaging is used to show the positive effect that aerogel windows and aerogel stud insulation have on decreasing heat transfer.
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