Simulation of the Technological Scheme for the Process of Obtaining Composite Materials Based on Aerogels.

The paper explores a method for the direct synthesis of functional compounds within the bulk of inorganic aerogels, coupled with the supercritical drying of composite materials. The processes for obtaining these materials are delineated into three main stages. The initial stage involves the synthesis of functional compounds on the gel surfaces. The subsequent stage entails the displacement of the solvent from the free volume of the apparatus by flowing supercritical carbon dioxide through the autoclave. The final stage is the supercritical drying process, leading to the removal of solvent from the material pores. The work provides detailed parameters for conducting both synthesis and supercritical drying processes. Additionally, a technological scheme of an industrial installation with a volume of 70 liters, employed for conducting supercritical processes and situated in Niagara LLC, Shchelkovo, is presented and described. To model these processes, a mathematical model was developed using the CHEMCAD software package, facilitating the determination of material and heat balances for individual devices and the overall technological scheme. The paper also calculates the impact of the amount of isopropyl alcohol on carbon dioxide consumption. An analysis of energy costs for the synthesis of functional compounds within aerogel volumes is conducted based on the acquired data. The mathematical model enables the identification of an energy- and resource-efficient method for the technological design of synthesis and supercritical drying processes. Notably, a reduction in energy costs within the technological scheme is achieved through the utilization of heat after compression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]