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Aerogel-infused fibers could make thinner warm textiles

Swatches | February 1, 2025 | By:

The high air content in the Aersulate® viscose fibers becomes visible in this electron microscope image.
The high air content in the Aersulate® viscose fibers becomes visible under an electron microscope. Image: Outlast Technologies

In its latest work with aerogel, Outlast Technologies GmbH announced that it has incorporated the thin insulating material directly into viscose fibers’ structure. The process has the potential to aid in creating less-bulky warm winter bedding or outdoor clothing. Aerogel insulates by binding the air inside the fiber and functions even when wet.

The company reports that an independent lab recently found that a 2-centimeter- (.79 inch-) thick viscose wadding treated with Aersulate® had a 35% better insulation performance than conventional viscose without the treatment, meaning that products can be made lighter without sacrificing insulating properties. The fibers were 50% aerogel by volume.

Even though aerogel is made from silica derived from quartz sand, the treated fibers are still soft. Aerogel is 98% air and has been historically used by NASA as an ultra-thin, lightweight insulating material.

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