Large-Scale Nanofiber Manufacturing| Mechanically Robust and Thermal Insulating Silica/AramidNanofiber composite Aerogel Fibers with Dual Networks forFire-Resistant and Flexible Triboelectric Nanogenerators

Adv. Funct. Mater. (IF 18.5): Dual-Network SiO₂/Aramid Nanofiber Composite Aerogel Fibers for Flame-Resistant and Flexible Triboelectric Nanogenerators

Challenge: Aerogel fibers, known for their lightweight and superior thermal insulation, are ideal for triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) in extreme-environment wearable electronics. However, current aerogel fibers face limitations due to poor mechanical stability under harsh conditions.

Approach: Academician Zhu Meifang and Prof. Ye Changhuai (Donghua University) developed dual-network organic-inorganic aerogel fibers by growing nano-silica networks within aramid nanofiber wet gels via wet-spinning, followed by freeze-drying.

Innovation 1: The dual-network structure combines silica and aramid advantages, achieving 95% porosity, high tensile strength (3.4 MPa), low thermal conductivity (0.033 W/(m·K)), large surface area (587 m²/g), and flame resistance (LOI 47.7%).

Innovation 2: Woven aerogel fabrics withstand repeated liquid nitrogen bending without pore collapse. After 10,000 machine-impact cycles (simulating real use), weight remained stable, avoiding powder shedding seen in traditional inorganic aerogels.

Innovation 3: The fabric is hydrophobic (128° contact angle) and floats on water for 12+ hours, proving liquid cannot penetrate its nanopores.