Recent Advances and Prospective on the effect of processing parameters, additives, and applications of silica aerogel nanocomposites

Abstract Silica Aerogels have emerged as a new class of porous solid-state nanomaterials which consist of a three‐dimensional (3D) solid silica network with a huge air-filled space of highly cross-linked structures. Due to the distinct features, such as high porosity, large surface area, extremely low density, and low thermal conductivity, they show potential applicants in various emerging fields. Silica aerogel limits its application due to its fragile nature; as a result, it is essential to develop mechanical strength. To enhance the widespread industrial application of silica aerogel in the future, reinforcement of fiber/polymer/metal oxide has been widely studied. This overview particularly emphasizes achieving mechanisms of mechanical strength on the recent advances regarding various additives into the silica matrix. Also, the outline of the significant improvements in the resultant mechanical strength, thermal conductivity, porosity, and surface area of the nanocomposites are represented. In this review, we have elaborated on the synthesis of the silica aerogel, fillers trapped inside the silica matrix aerogel pores, and its application in potential fields.