Iran Localizes Aerogel Technology for Energy Optimization
WANA (Sep 22) – An Iranian knowledge-based company has successfully localized aerogel technology, marking a significant step toward optimizing energy consumption and reducing costs across various industries.
Aerogels, the latest generation of thermal and cooling insulators, are widely used in energy-intensive sectors such as refineries, power plants, and construction due to their low thermal conductivity and ability to operate in extremely high and low temperatures.
Dr. Hassan Bargzin, CEO of the company, highlighted the importance of this technology in improving production quality and reducing dependence on foreign resources. He noted that domestic production of aerogels not only cuts import costs but also provides a fundamental solution for managing Iran’s energy crisis while creating positive economic impacts across multiple industries.
Advanced Thermal Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Bargzin emphasized that the latest generation of thermal and cooling insulators is produced using nanotechnology and has become a key solution for energy optimization, particularly in the construction sector.
“Aerogels are essentially a new generation of insulation materials that outperform traditional insulators due to their unique properties,” he said. “Initially developed by NASA, this technology is now used in petrochemical industries, refineries, power plants, aerospace, steel manufacturing, as well as construction and dam projects.”
Exceptional Properties of Aerogels
He explained that aerogels offer superior thermal performance, with a thermal conductivity approximately six times lower than traditional insulators. This means that achieving the same efficiency requires six times less thickness and ten times less volume.
Bargzin also highlighted their hydrophobic properties. Unlike traditional insulators, which may degrade and lose efficiency due to moisture absorption — sometimes increasing thermal conductivity by over fifty times — aerogels maintain performance even in high-humidity conditions, making them highly reliable for sensitive industrial applications.
Wide Temperature Range and Industrial Applications
Aerogels perform effectively across extreme temperatures, from -20°C to 650°C, making them suitable for temperature-sensitive industries, including firefighting gear, gloves, and mountaineering equipment.
“We are proud that this advanced technology has been localized in Iran, allowing us to produce and commercialize aerogel products domestically,” Bargzin said. “Using local raw materials has significantly reduced production costs.”
Economic Advantages and Export Potential
He noted that domestically produced aerogels are much cheaper than imported alternatives, attracting interest for export, particularly to European markets. Considering Iran’s high energy consumption, aerogels offer one of the most cost-effective solutions for managing the national energy crisis.
Currently, the company has two main product lines: one commercialized for refineries and power plants, and another for construction and industrial sheds. These products comply with international standards such as ASTM and match the quality of foreign alternatives.
Bargzin expressed optimism about expanding the technology further. “Our collaborations with major domestic industries, including petrochemical and oil companies, are ongoing. We hope this trend continues, allowing for further development of this technology globally,” he concluded.
Iran Localizes Aerogel Technology for Energy Optimization. Social media/ WANA News Agency
