Preparation and High-Temperature Properties of Low-Cost Basalt Fiber Reinforced Aerogel Composites

Abstract

To address the thermal runaway risk of lithium-ion batteries in new energy vehicles, this study developed a basalt fiber reinforced aerogel composite thermal insulation pad using an atmospheric pressure drying process. Methods​ By regulating the concentration of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), the ambient-temperature properties of the composites were optimized, and the high-temperature performance was investigated via heating treatment and flame exposure experiments. Results​ TEOS molarity exerted substantial influence on aerogel architectural and functional attributes. At 1.00 mol/L precursor concentration, the composite achieved superior ambient-condition performance: thermal conductivity minimized to 0.0254 W/(m·K), compressive resistance of 121 kPa, and complete elastic recovery upon load removal. Elevated-temperature behavior was equally remarkable: thermal conductivity remained merely 0.0494 W/(m·K) at 500°C; following 700°C exposure for 24 h, abundant mesoporosity was preserved; after 1090°C butane flame impingement for 20 min, sintering remained confined to a superficial 2 mm stratum.Conclusion​ The composite material developed in this study offers a low-cost, high-performance solution for the passive thermal protection of power batteries.