This research investigates the core materials used to create vacuum insulation panels. Of particular interest to the investigators was the thermal conductivity of the initial materials (usually powders) under different pressures. The researchers designed their own powder sample cell holder. The powders tested were low density silica powders, and using the sample set up the team was able to test them along a pressure range from atmospheric pressure to 0.1mbar. ...
The physical properties, including thermal conductivity, pore structure, and tapped density, of a novel nanoporous silica material. Thermal conductivity was measured, which determined two values of 0.0284 and 0.0294 W/mK. The materials had a high porosity of 95-97%. The lowest density obtained was 0.077g/cm3. High resolution scanning microscopy and nitrogen physisorption were also used as part of the study....
