Activation–retardation in sol–gel reactions for additive manufacturing of transparent poly(methylsilsesquioxane) aerogels

Mengyue Gao, Junyan Zhang, Chengjian Xu, Xiaoxiao Yu, Linfeng Chen, Junjie Zheng, Weiwei Zuo, Xinhai Zhang, Yanhua Cheng () and Meifang Zhu ()
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Mengyue Gao: Donghua University
Junyan Zhang: Donghua University
Chengjian Xu: Donghua University
Xiaoxiao Yu: Donghua University
Linfeng Chen: Donghua University
Junjie Zheng: Donghua University
Weiwei Zuo: Donghua University
Xinhai Zhang: Donghua University
Yanhua Cheng: Donghua University
Meifang Zhu: Donghua University

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract Coupling superior thermal insulation performance with high transparency for solar transmission and excellent processability in aerogels is a challenging yet promising subject. Here, we report a direct ink writing strategy to create transparent polymethylsilsesquioxane (PMSQ) aerogels from gel inks with desired rheology, by merely using acid-base dual modulators to achieve “activation–retardation” of polycondensation reaction. The printed aerogels are pure PMSQ, have a transmittance of 97% in the visible-near infrared range, thermal conductivity (16.2 mW m−1 K−1) lower than that of still air, and low density (0.08 g cm−3). We demonstrate new possibilities of our 3D-printed transparent aerogels, such as device encapsulation for heat insulation and cylindrical cooling shields for lighting.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-63356-8

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