Dear Colleagues,

Aerogels, known for their ultralight structure and exceptional material properties, are at the forefront of material science innovation. The Special Issue of the journal Gels, entitled "Recent Advances in Aerogel and Aerogel Composites", aims to explore the cutting-edge developments within this field. It will serve as a comprehensive platform for researchers and scientists to disseminate their findings on the novel synthesis routes, characterizations, simulations, and applications of aerogel materials. 

The scope of this Special Issue encompasses a wide array of topics. Contributions are invited on subjects including, but not limited to, new methods in synthesis, simulation, structural design and functionalization, advances in hybrid aerogel composites, and breakthroughs in their mechanical, thermal, and acoustic properties. The Special Issue seeks to delve into the innovative functionalization of aerogels, with the goal of unlocking their potential in various applications such as catalysis, energy storage and conversion, thermal insulation, and environmental remediation. 

Moreover, submissions that report on the scalability of aerogel production, addressing the challenges associated with transitioning from laboratory-scale to industrial-scale manufacturing, are encouraged. Studies on the lifecycle assessment and environmental impact of aerogel production and utilization will also be key aspects aligned with the increasing demand for sustainable material solutions. 

This Special Issue aspires to serve as a nexus for academic and industrial researchers to share insights, foster collaborations, and push the boundaries of aerogel technology. Through this research collection, we aim to highlight the remarkable potential of aerogels and their composites, paving the way for their integration into next-generation materials and technologies.

Dr. Mu Du
Dr. Xianbo Hou
Dr. Lin Guo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Gels is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• aerogel
• aerogel composites
• simulation
• preparation and characterization techniques
• applications