Insulation

Aerogel Insulation.

Aerogel has the highest CO₂ footprint per kg — but is used in such thin layers that the total footprint per insulated m² can be justified. Use it only where technically unavoidable.

Key Figures

Carbon Footprint (GWP): 6.5 kg CO₂-eq/kg
Density: 100–170 kg/m³
Expected Lifespan: 50+ år

What is aerogel insulation?

Aerogel is the world's best insulation material (lowest lambda value). It is an ultra-light, nanoporous silica-based material. Used in thin layers where space is extremely limited, e.g. in listed buildings, window reveals, and light gaps. The price is 5–10x higher than mineral wool, and the carbon footprint is relatively high.

Carbon Footprint Compared

Mineral wool ← this material 1.05 kg CO₂/kg

EPS 3.29 kg CO₂/kg

XPS 4.16 kg CO₂/kg

Aerogel 6.5 kg CO₂/kg

Negative carbon footprint (green) indicates carbon storage. Data based on EPD averages from ECO Platform and estimates per EN 15804.

Typical Applications

check_circle Window sills and reveals
check_circle Listed buildings with space constraints
check_circle Service shafts
check_circle Technical installations insulation

In Renovation

Aerogel is a niche product for renovation of listed and heritage buildings, where insulation layer thickness is a constraint. It solves problems that no other material can.

Questions about aerogel insulation

What is the lambda value of aerogel?

Aerogel has a lambda value of approximately 0.013–0.015 W/mK — about twice as good as EPS (0.031) and 3x better than mineral wool (0.035). This means 25 mm aerogel equals approximately 75 mm mineral wool.

When is aerogel worth the price?

Aerogel is only justified when space is an absolute constraint: window sills and reveals, connections and edges in listed buildings, and technical details where millimetres count.

Is aerogel environmentally friendly?

No — aerogel production is energy and resource intensive. The CO₂ footprint per kg is the highest on the list. On the other hand, very little is used per m² (thin panels), so the total footprint per insulated m² can still be reasonable.

Can aerogel be used in all climates?

Yes. Aerogel is stable across a wide temperature and humidity range and is suitable for use in demanding climates. It is used in NASA space vehicles and the oil and gas industry.

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