High-Temperature-Resistant Aerogel Composites for Pressure and Temperature Sensing

Abstract

Robust high-temperature intelligent composite materials exhibit vast potential in the aerospace, fire protection, and energy sectors. The common fabrication approach of high-temperature intelligent composites involves embedding optical fibers or rigid sensors within the composite. However, this approach endangers the structural integrity of the composite, potentially inducing mechanical damage under increased pressure. In this work, flexible silica aerogel/fabric composites (SAFCs) with temperature and pressure sensing capabilities at elevated temperatures were fabricated via printing and composite techniques. The SAFC pressure sensor benefits from robust mechanical and thermal properties, providing long-term reliable sensing performance at elevated temperatures up to 300 °C with a rapid response time (300 ms), large detection range (0–380 kPa), and significant fatigue resistance. SAFC’s outstanding thermal insulation established a temperature gradient across the heat source and environment, allowing thermoelectric potential production via the Seebeck effect and response to temperature alterations. This study presents a concept for fabricating aerogel/fabric sensing composites that can be applied in high-temperature environments.