The operators frequently inquire about the thermal performance of advanced insulation materials between perlite and aerogels. The workhorse status of perlite persists in large-scale cryogenic storage despite aerogels achieving ultra-low thermal conductivity.
The following analysis presents their comparison.
1. Thermal Properties
- Aerogels achieve λ-values as low as 0.015 W/m·K, while perlite typically offers 0.035–0.04 W/m·K.
- The volume scalability of perlite makes it sufficient for bulk-fill applications.
2. Cost and Availability
- Aerogels cost much more than perlite for every cubic meter of material.
- The large tank logistics and availability of perlite make it the dominant choice.
3. Application Fit
- Aerogels perform exceptionally well in pipeline applications as well as aerospace and thin-wall insulation systems.
- The cost-effectiveness of perlite makes it the leading choice for LNG tanks and ASUs and bulk cryogenic storage applications.
