SiO2 aerogel@polymer composites(APC)integrate the nanoporous feature,the low thermal conductivity and the high temperature resistance of SiO2 aerogels with the high flexibility and the high strength of polymers,possessing a special organic-inorganic interpenetrating structure at the microscopic scale. Thus the APC bears dual benefits,overcoming the inherent high brittleness and low strength of SiO2 aerogel,and enhancing the heat insulation,high temperature resistance,flame retardant and hydrophobicity of the polymer. These integrated properties of APC pave the way toward applications requiring multiple functions including high strength,high toughness,high thermal insulation,high temperature resistance,flame retardancy,fire resistance,and hydrophobicity,which renders APC a hotspot in the field of new aerogel materials. This paper reviews the latest research progress in the field from three perspectives:preparation methods,composition and microstructure,and physicochemical properties of SiO2 aerogel@polymer composites,including epoxy resin,poly-urethane,polyimide,polyvinyl alcohol,polystyrene and other common polymer systems. Three typical preparation methods of‘blending method’‘co-precursor method’and‘aerogel or polymer in-situ growth method’were summarized. The structure and properties of aerogel@polymer composites were described from the aspects of composition and microstructure,mechanical properties,thermal properties,flame retardant properties,hydrophobicity,etc. The influences of the preparation method and aerogels content on the structure and properties of composites were analyzed. Finally,the existing problems and possible future development of the current research were analyzed and prospected. © 2023 Cailiao Daobaoshe/ Materials Review. All rights reserved.
