High-temperature flexible, strength and hydrophobic YSZ/SiO2 nanofibrous membranes with excellent thermal insulation

A yttria-stabilized zirconia mixed silica nanofibrous membrane (YSZ/SiO2 NFM) was fabricated by the electrospinning method. The well-aligned 3D membrane structure and the composite nanocrystalline-amorphous structure with fine zirconia grain and amorphous silica network, which greatly improved the mechanical properties of YSZ/SiO2 NFMs. The strength of the ceramic fibrous membrane after heat treatment at 1300 degrees C was reported for the first time, the tensile strength can reach 4.0 +/- 0.7 MPa and the strain can reach 5.3 +/- 1.1 %. The use temperature of YSZ NFMs was increased by nearly 300 degrees C. The maximum strength was up to 5.9 +/- 0.8 MPa, which is currently reported that the highest strength of oxide ceramic nanofibers at the same temperature. The YSZ/SiO2 NFMs after high temperature treatment not only had a good thermal insulation performance, but also had a hydrophobic performance. These attractive properties may provide new opportunities for flexible materials such as high-temperature insulation, fire insulation, and flexible electronics.

Automated summary

A yttria-stabilized zirconia mixed silica nanofibrous membrane (YSZ/SiO2 NFM) with improved mechanical properties and high temperature stability was fabricated using the electrospinning method. After heat treatment, the tensile strength and strain of the ceramic fibrous membrane significantly increased, and it exhibited thermal insulation and hydrophobic properties. These attractive features may open up new opportunities for applications in high-temperature insulation, fire insulation, and flexible electronics.