April 30, 2007—To meet growing consumer demand for more energy-efficient, eco-friendly daylighting options, Cabot Aerogel, a product line of Cabot Corporation, has introduced a product incorporating Nanogel aerogel in skylights produced by Acralight International Skylights, a leading manufacturer of commercial, industrial, residential and custom structural skylights.
Nanogel aerogel is reportedly the world’s lightest, light-transmitting, solid insulation material. This silica-based product is produced by Cabot using a patented process to create an aerogel material that is only 5% solids and 95% air. The extreme small pore structure of aerogel (approximately 20 nano-meters) eliminates convection, while the light-weight content of the solid aerogel minimizes conduction. The combination of these two properties prevents heat loss and solar heat gain more effectively than any other insulation material on the market, says Cabot.
Additionally, Nanogel aerogel eliminates glare to disperse an even, soft, diffuse light for better energy savings and other features that are proven beneficial to the overall health and well-being of occupants.
Acralight skylights with Nanogel incorporate the feather-light aerogel material filled within the cells of polycarbonate panels that are securely positioned inside Acralight skylight acrylic domes. Curb mount and self-flashing models are available with Nanogel aerogel for use in residential and commercial projects for new construction and replacement applications.
