Aerogel is widely recognized as one of the most advanced thermal insulation materials available today. Thanks to its ultra-low thermal conductivity and lightweight structure, aerogel is used in industries ranging from oil & gas and petrochemical to construction and aerospace. However, one of the most frequently asked questions from engineers and buyers is: Is aerogel waterproof?

The short answer is: Yes, most industrial aerogel insulation materials are water-repellent, but the full picture depends on the aerogel type and application. Let's take a closer look.

Understanding Aerogel's Structure

Aerogel is a nanoporous solid material composed of up to 95–99% air. Its internal structure consists of interconnected pores on the nanometer scale. While this structure is what gives aerogel its excellent insulation performance, it also raises concerns about moisture absorption.

Pure, untreated aerogel can absorb moisture. However, industrial aerogel insulation products are typically surface-treated to become hydrophobic.

Is Aerogel Hydrophobic?

Yes. Most commercially available aerogel insulation blankets and felts are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water rather than absorb it.

Hydrophobic aerogel:

Repels liquid water

Does not wick moisture

Maintains thermal performance even in humid or wet environments

When water contacts hydrophobic aerogel, it beads up and rolls off instead of penetrating the material.

Aerogel vs Traditional Insulation in Wet Conditions

Compared with conventional insulation materials, aerogel performs significantly better in moisture-prone environments:

This makes aerogel insulation especially suitable for outdoor pipelines, offshore platforms, LNG facilities, and high-humidity industrial environments.

Does Aerogel Need Additional Waterproofing?

While aerogel itself is water-repellent, system design still matters.

In real-world applications:

Aerogel insulation is often paired with protective jacketing or cladding (aluminum, stainless steel, or polymer jackets).

Sealed joints and proper installation help prevent long-term moisture ingress.

For submerged or constantly exposed conditions, additional waterproof layers are recommended.

Aerogel does not replace waterproof membranes, but it dramatically reduces moisture-related insulation failures.

How Water Exposure Affects Aerogel Performance

One of aerogel's key advantages is that its thermal conductivity remains stable even after water exposure. Unlike fibrous insulation, aerogel does not collapse or lose structure when wet.

Benefits include:

Consistent insulation performance

Reduced corrosion under insulation (CUI) risk

Faster drying compared to traditional materials

This is why aerogel is often chosen for critical assets where moisture control is essential.

Applications Where Waterproof Aerogel Matters Most

Hydrophobic aerogel insulation is commonly used in:

Oil & gas pipelines

Chemical processing plants

Power generation facilities

Marine and offshore environments

Cryogenic and LNG systems

In these scenarios, moisture resistance is just as important as thermal efficiency.

Conclusion: Is Aerogel Waterproof?

Yes - modern aerogel insulation materials are water-repellent and highly resistant to moisture. While aerogel itself is not a waterproof barrier, its hydrophobic properties ensure excellent performance in wet and humid environments when properly installed.

For industries where insulation failure due to moisture is a major concern, aerogel offers a reliable, long-lasting solution that outperforms traditional insulation materials.