Insulation materials are critical for energy-efficient buildings, but conventional petroleum-derived foams often suffer from flammability, environmental concerns, and limited recyclability. Addressing this challenge, a new study in the Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts demonstrates how nanocellulose, the world's most abundant biopolymer, can be engineered into advanced aerogels that combine thermal insulation, flame retardancy, and mechanical robustness.
The research team designed bio-based aerogels by employing directional freeze-drying, followed by chemical crosslinking to strengthen the nanocellulose network. The resulting aerogels exhibited a highly porous, anisotropic architecture that not only suppressed heat transfer but also improved structural integrity. Thermal conductivity measurements showed values as low as 0.032 W/m·K, comparable to or even better than many synthetic foams.
One of the most striking findings was the aerogels' inherent flame resistance. Unlike conventional insulation foams that burn rapidly, the nanocellulose aerogels demonstrated excellent fire retardancy, attributed to the carbonization and char-forming behavior of cellulose under high temperatures. The study also revealed that integrating functional additives could further tailor flame-retardant performance without sacrificing thermal insulation.
Mechanical testing confirmed that the aerogels maintained impressive strength and flexibility despite their ultralight density. Compression tests revealed recovery rates above 90% after repeated loading cycles, underscoring the material's resilience for practical handling and long-term use. The combination of mechanical stability and functional tunability makes the aerogels particularly suitable for applications where lightweight yet durable insulation is required.
Beyond performance metrics, the study emphasized the sustainability advantages of nanocellulose. Derived from renewable biomass, the aerogels offer a biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional petroleum-based materials. The authors highlighted the aerogels' potential not only in energy-efficient building envelopes but also in broader areas such as thermal management for electronics and transportation systems.
This work adds to a growing body of research positioning nanocellulose as a cornerstone for sustainable material development. By uniting thermal insulation, fire safety, and structural robustness in a single platform, the study paves the way for scalable, eco-friendly solutions to pressing energy and safety challenges.
See the article:
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobab.2025.09.004
Original Source URL
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2369969825000647
Journal
Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts
