Abstract: A self-supporting aerogel structure is provided. The structure comprises a plurality of aerogel particles adhered together with an adhesive to produce a material exhibiting low heat transfer and high transmission of visible light. The aerogel particles can be coated with a polymer or pre-polymer and remain free flowing until they are activated to complete polymerization.

Abstract: A method of making a nonwoven wet laid aerogel blanket is provided. The aerogel blanket can exhibit improved thermal conductivity, lower corrosivity, lower dust production and a uniform structure. The blanket can be made from an aerogel floc that is formed from a slurry of aerogel particles.

Abstract: A self-supporting aerogel structure is provided. The structure comprises a plurality of aerogel particles adhered together with an adhesive to produce a material exhibiting low heat transfer and high transmission of visible light. The aerogel particles can be coated with a polymer or pre-polymer and remain free flowing until they are activated to complete polymerization.

Abstract: A method of making a nonwoven wet laid aerogel blanket is provided. The aerogel blanket can exhibit improved thermal conductivity, lower corrosivity, lower dust production and a uniform structure. The blanket can be made from an aerogel floc that is formed from a slurry of aerogel particles.

Abstract: A method of making a nonwoven wet laid aerogel blanket is provided. The aerogel blanket can exhibit improved thermal conductivity, lower corrosivity, lower dust production and a uniform structure. The blanket can be made from an aerogel floc that is formed from a slurry of aerogel particles.

Abstract: A burner apparatus utilizes a reticulated member to promote mixing of a fuel and oxidizer mixture. A plurality of exit ports, disposed on a wall or surface encapsulating the reticulated member, defines exit streams of the mixture that produces flames upon combustion. The burner apparatus have high heating rates and turndown ratios of at least about 18:1.

Abstract: An airflow control system for an oven having an oven cavity and a fan having a first operating mode for generating a first flow of air and a second operating mode for generating a second flow of air is provided. A baffle is included adjacent the fan to direct the first flow of air to a first region of the cavity in the first operating mode and to direct the second flow of air to a second region of the cavity in the second operating mode. A method of controlling airflow in an oven having an oven cavity is also detailed. The method can include different modes of operation, with different clockwise and counterclockwise rotational times for the fan, with different heating elements energized, or a combination of both, depending upon the food to be cooked in the oven.

Abstract: A method for fabricating evacuated panels for use in cooling apparatus, such panels being particularly well suited for use in refrigerators. The method includes a preconditioning step in which the powder filler of the panel is heated and agitated, prior to placement in an air permeable pouch for compression and then in a barrier container for evacuation.