Visualization Analysis and Knowledge Mapping the Research of Aerogels Applied in Buildings

Abstract

With the deepening of aerogel research and the popularization of its application, the demands for energy saving in the construction field has brought aerogels into the limelight. To explore state-of-the-art research and development trends related to aerogels applied in construction, CiteSpace was used to conduct a quantitative analysis based on the Web of Science core database. Results show that: (1) in the past 10 years, the number of papers on aerogels in the field of constructions has increased significantly; (2) the top producing countries in the aerogel field are mainly China and the United States, and the top two research institutions are all Chinese institutions (Univ Sci & Technol China and Chinese Acad Sci); (3) the main publishing journals are ENERGY AND BUILDINGS, CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS, and CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL; (4) the hot keywords are thermal insulation, silica aerogel, thermal conductivity, phase change material, mechanical property, graphene aerogel, self-assembly, energy saving, etc.; (5) aerogel is mostly used in building insulation, mainly in the form of aerogel glass, aerogel mortar, aerogel felt, and aerogel coating. In summary, in addition to systematically strengthening theoretical research, it is necessary to optimize the technical process and reduce costs in order to effectively promote aerogels in construction energy conservation and carbon reduction. Through this study, the current situation, hot spots, and development trend of aerogel application in construction can be revealed systematically. Overall, this study helps advance research on aerogels applied in buildings and help in tackling energy efficiency challenges.