Advances in micro/nanofiber-based porous materials for high-performance thermal insulation

Abstract

Thermal insulation materials serve as critical components in daily life and industrial processes that protect humans against the cold environment, minimize energy consumption, and promote sustainable development. Emerging micro/nanofiber-based porous thermal insulation materials, exhibiting much lower thermal conductivity than the commercial mainstream materials, have gained widespread attention in recent years. Herein, a comprehensive review is presented on the advancements in micro/nanofiber thermal insulation materials, focusing on structural designs, fabrication techniques, and applications. This review starts with the fundamental heat transfer mechanisms inherent in porous thermal insulation materials. Then, a detailed discussion of the structural design of micro/nanofiber thermal insulation materials is given, ranging from the 2D fibrous membranes/textiles to the newly developed 3D sponges/aerogels. Furthermore, the representative applications of the micro/nanofiber thermal insulation materials are highlighted, in areas including personal protection equipment, aerospace, automobile industry, and the building sector. Finally, the review outlines the existing challenges and future research directions of the micro/nanofiber thermal insulation materials, such as new thermal insulation mechanisms, long-term structural stability, and sustainable fabrication technologies. This review is expected to advance the diversification of thermal insulation materials and significantly contribute to the development of sophisticated thermal management systems.