An overview on cellulose/silica organic-inorganic hybrid composite aerogels

An overview of the literatures is presented on cellulose-silica organic-inorganic hybrid aerogels. According to the technological characteristics, cellulose-silica composite aerogels can usually be synthesized by three methods, i. e. solution impregnation method, direct mixing and layer-by-layer deposition. The dissolution or dispersion of cellulose and the introducing method of silica are discussed in detail, which are important influencing factors for compositing cellulose-silica aerogels. The characteristics of microstructures and crosslinking mechanisms of cellulose-silica aerogels are analyzed, and the properties in mechanics, thermal insulation, optics, hydrophobicity and biology are compared. Based on the physical and chemical properties of organic cellulose and inorganic silica, some of composite problems are discussed and some new ideas for further development are proposed.