National Informal STEM Education Network: Aerogel

In this Short Activity, learners see and interact with the nanomaterial aerogel and discover its unique properties.

This cart demonstration introduces the nanomaterial aerogel, a glass nanofoam. Visitors learn how aerogel is made, how well it insulates, and learn about its other unique properties. They see real aerogel and feel how well it insulates.

BIG IDEA

Aerogels use tiny spheres of glass to trap air, giving the material amazing new properties.

LEARNING GOALS

  • Aerogel is a product of nanotechnology.
  • Aerogel is a great insulator, used in a few special applications.
  • Aerogel was invented in the 1930s, but wasn’t used much until new applications were developed.
  • Many materials exhibit startling properties at the nanoscale.

NANO CONTENT MAP

Nanoscience, nanotechnology, and nanoengineering lead to new knowledge and innovations that weren’t possible before.

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Technology Topics
Nanotechnology
K-6, Middle School, Educator
4th Grade, 5th Grade, 6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade
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