The application of aerogels is gradually increasing in building energy conservation, industrial insulation, and high-temperature or space-constrained scenarios. However, due to their diverse types and significant differences in technical parameters, improper selection in engineering projects often fails to realize their full advantages. The following is a systematic analysis of the key points for selecting aerogels in engineering applications.

First, the operating temperature range needs to be considered. Different aerogel products vary significantly in temperature resistance. Common silica aerogels can cover a low to medium-high temperature range, but the specific long-term operating temperature must be matched with the operating conditions. In high-temperature equipment, heat pipelines, or petrochemical plants, the long-term upper limit of the material's temperature resistance and thermal stability should be carefully checked, rather than just referring to instantaneous temperature resistance indicators.

The second key factor is the relationship between thermal conductivity and thickness. The core advantage of aerogels lies in their low thermal conductivity, making them suitable for engineering scenarios where insulation thickness is limited. However, in actual design, calculations must still be performed based on system heat loss requirements and surface temperature control standards to reasonably determine the thickness, avoiding simply pursuing "the thinner the better," which can lead to excessively high costs or insufficient safety margins.

Third, the product form and structural shape need to be considered. Aerogels are typically used in engineering as felts, composite panels, or coatings. Aerogel felts offer good flexibility, making them suitable for complex pipes, irregularly shaped equipment, and vibration-prone conditions; composite panels are more suitable for planar structures or applications requiring high compressive strength. Selection should be based on a comprehensive consideration of construction conditions and structural characteristics.

Fourth, mechanical properties and durability are often overlooked in engineering selection. Pure aerogel materials have relatively low strength, so fiber-reinforced products are frequently used in engineering. Emphasis should be placed on their compressive and tear resistance, as well as their stability under long-term thermal cycling and vibration environments, to prevent powdering, cracking, or performance degradation later on.

Fifth, moisture and water resistance directly affect the long-term performance of aerogels. Although aerogels are inherently hydrophobic, in high humidity, outdoor, or low-temperature condensation risk environments, they still require a reliable moisture barrier and external protective system. When selecting a product, its hydrophobic rating and compatibility with the system's protective structure should be clearly defined.

Sixth, fire resistance and safety performance should be comprehensively evaluated. In engineering applications, it is typically necessary to focus on the material's combustion performance rating, smoke density, and structural integrity at high temperatures. For public buildings, energy, and chemical projects, aerogel products that have undergone authoritative testing and meet relevant fire protection standards should be given priority.

Finally, economic efficiency and construction suitability are also important considerations in selection. While aerogel has a relatively high unit price, it offers comprehensive benefits in reducing thickness, lowering structural load, and extending equipment lifespan. Selection should be based on the total life-cycle cost, combined with a comprehensive evaluation of construction difficulty, labor costs, and maintenance cycles, rather than solely relying on material price.

Overall, aerogel engineering selection should be based on a clear understanding of the operating conditions, comprehensively considering temperature range, insulation performance, structural form, durability, protection requirements, and economic efficiency. Only through systematic selection can the technological advantages of aerogel as a new type of high-performance insulation material be fully realized in actual engineering projects.