Panel for ventilation ducts, ventilation duct comprising said panel, ventilation system comprising said ventilation duct, method of production of said panel, plant for the production of said panel

Abstract

Panel for ventilation ducts, comprising: a structural core (10), made of polyurethane foam and with a plate-like shape, having a first surface (10a) and a second surface (10b) opposite said first surface (10a); a first aerogel layer (21), fixed to the first surface (10a) of the structural core (10); a first external reinforcement layer (31), fixed to the outside of said first aerogel layer (21).

Description

[0001] PANEL FOR VENTILATION DUCTS, VENTILATION DUCT COMPRISING SAID PANEL, VENTILATION SYSTEM COMPRISING SAID VENTILATION DUCT, METHOD OF PRODUCTION OF SAID PANEL, PLANT FOR THE PRODUCTION OF SAID PANEL Description

[0002] The present invention relates to a panel for ventilation ducts.

[0003] The present invention is additionally related to a ventilation duct which comprises said panel.

[0004] The present invention is additionally related to a ventilation system which comprises said duct.

[0005] The present invention also relates to a method of production of said panel.

[0006] The present invention further relates to a plant for the production of said panel.

[0007] As is known, in environments such as shopping centers, airports, exhibition spaces, etc. there is a tendency to remove false ceilings, leaving the ducts that are part of the ventilation systems exposed.

[0008] Such ducts, being situated at considerable heights and therefore difficult to access, are subject to deposition of cobwebs, larvae, dust, nests of insects, etc. which, in addition to constituting a problem of a hygienic nature, also prove to be strongly unpleasant from an aesthetic point of view.

[0009] In this context, the applicant has posed the objective of creating panels capable of guaranteeing, or at least encourage, the cleanliness and healthiness of the ventilation ducts, contrasting, in addition to the elements listed above, also viruses, micro-viruses, and bacteria.

[0010] An additional scope of the invention is the construction of panels which are capable of preventing the risk of fires and the spread of flame.

[0011] In accordance with a first aspect, the invention regards a panel for ventilation ducts. Preferably, said panel comprises a structural core.

[0012] Preferably, said structural core is made of polyurethane resin.

[0013] Preferably, said structural core presents a plate-like shape.

[0014] Preferably, said structural core presents a first surface.

[0015] Preferably, said structural core presents a second surface.

[0016] Preferably, said second surface is opposite said first surface.

[0017] Preferably, said panel comprises a first aerogel layer.

[0018] Preferably, said first aerogel layer is fixed to the first surface of the structural core.

[0019] Preferably, said panel comprises a first external reinforcement layer.

[0020] Preferably, said first external layer is fixed to the outside of said first aerogel layer.

[0021] According to a second aspect, the invention regards a ventilation duct.

[0022] Preferably, said ventilation duct presents an elongated form.

[0023] Preferably, said ventilation duct is delimited by one or more walls.

[0024] Preferably, one or more of said one or more walls comprise one or more panels in accordance with the aforementioned first aspect.

[0025] In accordance with a third aspect, the invention has as its object an ventilation system.

[0026] Preferably, said ventilation system comprises an active member, configured to generate a flow of air.

[0027] Preferably, said ventilation system comprises one or more ventilation ducts in accordance with the aforementioned second aspect.

[0028] Preferably, said one or more ducts are associated with said active member in order to channel said flow of air.

[0029] In accordance with a fourth aspect, the invention regards a method for making panels for ventilation ducts.

[0030] Preferably, said method comprises arranging a first aerogel layer.

[0031] Preferably, said method comprises delivering polyurethane foam onto said first aerogel layer.

[0032] Preferably, said polyurethane foam, as it hardens, forms a structural core of polyurethane resin.

[0033] Preferably, said structural core has a first surface.

[0034] Preferably, said structural core has a second surface.

[0035] Preferably, said second surface is opposite said first surface.

[0036] Preferably, said structural core is bound with its first surface to said first aerogel layer.

[0037] Preferably, said method comprises fixing a first external reinforcement layer to the outside of said first aerogel layer.

[0038] Preferably, said first external layer is fixed to said first aerogel layer during the dispensing of said polyurethane foam.

[0039] In accordance with a fifth aspect, the invention is directed to a plant for the production of panels for ventilation ducts.

[0040] Preferably, said plant comprises a first feeding station.

[0041] Preferably, said first feeding station is configured to feed at least one first aerogel layer to an operating zone.

[0042] Preferably, said plant comprises a second feeding station.

[0043] Preferably, said second feeding station is configured for feeding at least one first external reinforcement layer.

[0044] Preferably, said plant comprises a delivery station.

[0045] Preferably, said delivery station is configured for delivering a polyurethane foam onto said first aerogel layer.

[0046] Preferably, said polyurethane foam forms, as it hardens, a structural core of polyurethane resin.

[0047] Preferably, said structural core provides a first surface.

[0048] Preferably, said structural core provides a second surface.

[0049] Preferably, said second surface is opposite to said first surface.

[0050] Preferably, said structural core binds with its first surface to said first aerogel layer. Preferably, said plant comprises a fixing station.

[0051] Preferably, said fixing station is configured for fixing, while delivering said polyurethane foam, said at least one first external reinforcement layer to the outside of said first aerogel layer.

[0052] In one or more of the aforementioned aspects, the invention may comprise one or more of the following preferred characteristics.

[0053] Preferably, said panel comprises a second aerogel layer.

[0054] Preferably, said second aerogel layer is fixed to the second surface of said structural core.

[0055] Preferably, said panel comprises a second external reinforcement layer.

[0056] Preferably, said second external layer is fixed to the outside of said second aerogel layer.

[0057] Preferably, said second external layer is fixed to the second surface of said structural core.

[0058] Preferably, said structural core has a thickness ranging between 5mm and 70mm.

[0059] Preferably, said first and / or second aerogel layer has a thickness ranging between 3mm and 50mm.

[0060] Preferably, said first and / or second external layer has a thickness ranging between 50 pm and 1000 pm.

[0061] Preferably, said first and / or second external layer comprises one or more of:

[0062] - aluminium;

[0063] - galvanized iron;

[0064] - iron associated with a PVC layer;

[0065] - glass-reinforced PVC;

[0066] - stainless steel.

[0067] Preferably, said first and / or second external layer is fixed by means of a water-based glue. Preferably, said first and / or second external layer is externally coated with:

[0068] - a primer;

[0069] - 3-4 % by weight of zinc oxide;

[0070] - 3-4 % by weight of copper oxide;

[0071] - 5 % by weight of natural essential tea tree oil.

[0072] Preferably, said first and / or second external layer comprises one or more fireproof mineral fibres.

[0073] Preferably, said method comprises arranging a second aerogel layer.

[0074] Preferably, said second aerogel layer is spaced apart from and substantially parallel to said first aerogel layer.

[0075] Preferably, said second aerogel layer is arranged with respect to said first aerogel layer so as to define an interspace between said first and second aerogel layers.

[0076] Preferably, said polyurethane foam is delivered into said interspace.

[0077] Preferably, said first feeding station is configured to feed a second aerogel layer to said operating zone.

[0078] Preferably, said first feeding station feeds said second aerogel layer so that said first and second aerogel layers in said operating zone are spaced apart from and substantially parallel to each other.

[0079] Preferably, said first and second aerogel layers define an interspace between said first and second aerogel layers.

[0080] Preferably, said delivery station, to create said structural core, is configured to deliver said foam into said interspace.

[0081] Additional characteristics and advantages will appear from the detailed description of a preferred and non-exclusive embodiment of the invention. Such a description is provided below with reference to the annexed figures, having a purely exemplary scope and as such non-limiting, in which:

[0082] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a panel in accordance with the present invention;

[0083] - Figures la-lc show construction variants of the panel in Figure 1;

[0084] - Figure 2 shows a schematic perspective view of a component of the panels of figures 1, la-lc;

[0085] - Figure 3 shows schematically a system which makes use of the panel of figure 1, la-lc;

[0086] - Figure 4 shows schematically a phase of a production process of a panel as in figure 1, la-lc;

[0087] - Figure 5 shows schematically a plant for the production of a panel as in figure 1, la-lc;

[0088] - Figures 6a-6b show schematically respective lateral views of two panels according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Reference 1 generally indicates a panel for ventilation ducts in accordance with the present invention.

[0090] Panel 1 (figures 1-2, la-lc) firstly comprises a self-supporting structural core 10, made of polyurethane resin, in particular PIR.

[0091] The structural core 10 presents a plate-like form, presenting a first surface 10a and a second surface 10b.

[0092] The first surface 10a is opposite the second surface 10b.

[0093] As schematically shown in figures 1-2, la-lc, the structural core 10 may have a substantially parallelepiped form.

[0094] For example, the thickness (that is, the height, according to the reference system of figures 1-2, la-lc) of the structural core 10 may be between 5mm and 70mm, based on the specific applicable needs.

[0095] The width of the structural core 10 (that is, a dimension in a planar view) may be, for example, between 100cm and 150cm.

[0096] Panel 1 further comprises a first aerogel layer 21, fixed to the first surface 10a of the structural core 10.

[0097] The Applicant observes that, preferably, aerogel is intended to mean a highly porous synthetic nanostructure material, whose name is derived from the gel they are made of, where the liquid component of the gel is substituted with a gas, conferring an aspect of "condensed smoke" or "solidified fog" to the final product. In particular, silica aerogel can be used.

[0098] Panel 1 further comprises at least a first external reinforcement layer 31.

[0099] The first external layer 31 is fixed externally to the first layer of aerogel 21 - that is, on the opposite side of the structural core 10.

[0100] In an embodiment (figure 1, lb), panel 1 further comprises a second aerogel layer 22, fixed to the second surface 10b of the structural core 10.

[0101] Preferably, the first and / or the second aerogel layer 21, 22 presents a thickness between 3mm and 50mm, for example between 3mm and 10mm.

[0102] Preferably, panel 1 further comprises a second external reinforcement layer 32.

[0103] In an embodiment, the second external layer 32 is fixed externally to the second aerogel layer 22 (figure 1).

[0104] In an embodiment, the second external layer 32 is fixed to the second surface 10b of the structural core 10 (figure lc).

[0105] Advantageously, the at least a first external surface 31 (possibly in combination with the second external layer 32) also performs a structural function in cooperation with the structural core 10.

[0106] The at least a first external layer 31 has a plate-like form. In case it is present, the second external layer 32 has a plate-like form.

[0107] For example, the first and / or the second external layer 31, 32 could be made as an aluminum plate (smooth or embossed), as a galvanized iron sheet, a plasticized iron sheet (i.e. associated with a PVC layer); it can be a PVC sheet loaded with glass, or be made of stainless steel.

[0108] In an embodiment, the first and / or second external layer 31, 32 may additionally comprise one or more fire retardant mineral fibers.

[0109] In the embodiment of figure 1, the first external layer 31 is externally fixed to the first aerogel layer 21, and the second external layer 32 is fixed to the second aerogel layer 22.

[0110] A water-based glue is preferably used to fix the first and / or second external layer 31, 32 to the respective aerogel layer 21, 22.

[0111] Preferably, the water-based glue is a spray-adhesive.

[0112] Preferably, the water-based glue is a two-component glue; for example, water-based glue may comprise rubber latex, possibly suitably modified, and a catalyst. In an embodiment, the ratio between adhesive and catalyst, during application, can be between 12 / 3 and 8 / 3, for example equal to 10 / 3.

[0113] Such glue, in particular, is solvent-free, non-flammable, non-harmful. It has excellent thermal resistance (over 80°C after 48 hours from gluing), a strong initial grip, a high dry residue (about 56% ±2%) with consequent excellent yield (about 150-200 g / m2) and very low water release during application.

[0114] For example, the water-based glue may be applied by means of a low-pressure spray gun, specialized for two-component adhesives.

[0115] The aforementioned water-based glue can also be used in the embodiment of figure lc to fix the second external layer 32 to the second surface 10b of the structural core 10.

[0116] It is preferred that the first and / or second external layer 31, 32 has a thickness between 50 pm and 1000 pm, for example between 80 pm and 500 pm.

[0117] Advantageously, an outer coating is present on the surface of the first and / or second external layer 31, 32. This outer coating comprises:

[0118] - a primer;

[0119] - zinc oxide;

[0120] - tin oxide (preferably powder);

[0121] - natural tea tree oil essential oil (essential oil extracted from Melaleuca alternifolia leaves). As primer, epoxy paint can be used.

[0122] Preferably, the outer coating may additionally comprise brass oxide (e.g. in an amount between 0.4-0.6% by weight).

[0123] Preferably, the outer coating may additionally comprise ammonium (e.g. in an amount between 0.4-0.6% by weight).

[0124] Overall, the panel 1 may have, for example, a thickness between 15mm and 100mm.

[0125] The production of panel 1 may be implemented by the following method.

[0126] The first aerogel layer 21 is initially wound onto a specific unwinder. If present, the second aerogel layer 22 is also initially wound onto a respective winder.

[0127] Analogously, the first external layer 31 is wound onto a respective unwinder. The second external layer 32, if present, is similarly wound onto a respective unwinder.

[0128] The first aerogel layer 21 is progressively unwrapped and advanced, in an operational zone. If the second aerogel layer 22 is present as well, it is progressively unwound and advanced, distanced and substantially parallel with respect to the first aerogel layer 21, in the operational zone.

[0129] A polyurethane foam is dispensed on the first aerogel layer 21; if the second aerogel layer 22 is present, the polyurethane foam is dispensed in the interspace defined between the first aerogel layer 21 and the second aerogel layer 22.

[0130] The polyurethane foam, hardening and solidifying, forms the self- supporting structural core 10.

[0131] Meanwhile, the first external layer 31 is unwound; in the case where both the first and second external layers 31, 32 are provided, both are unwound while the first aerogel layer 21 (and possibly the second aerogel layer 22) is unwound and the polyurethane foam is dispensed.

[0132] The water-based glue is sprayed on the external surface of the first and / or second aerogel layer 21, 22, and / or on the internal surface of the external layer(s) 31, 32.

[0133] In this way, bringing the external layer(s) 31, 32 in contact with the first and / or second aerogel layer 21, 22, it is possible to obtain a fastening between the at least one external layer 31, 32.

[0134] Figure 4 shows schematically the process: the arrows "A" represent the spraying of the glue, the arrow "B" represents the direction of advancement of the process. The left part represents the unwinding phase of the layers 21, 22, 31, 32 and the dispensing of the foam in the interspace X. The obtained panel 1 is represented schematically in the left part.

[0135] In the case where the second aerogel layer 22 is not provided, the water-based glue to fix the second external layer 32 to the second surface 10b of the structural core 10 is sprayed on the second surface 10b of the structural core 10 and / or on the internal surface of the second external layer 32.

[0136] Thanks to the steps described above, a continuous semi-finished workpiece, in the form of a structural core 10, from the first aerogel layer 21 and the first external reinforcement layer 31 is obtained. As stated, the second aerogel layer 22 and / or the second external layer 32 are optionally present. A cutting operation is performed to obtain the panel 1, cutting to size the aforementioned continuous semi-finished workpiece, according to need based on the specific application.

[0137] The application phase of the first and / or second external layer 31, 32 preferably occurs at a temperature between 50°C and 70°C, in particular equal to around 60°C; this favors the solidification of the glue obtaining the desired adhesive effect.

[0138] Preferably, the remaining part of the process occurs at ambient temperature.

[0139] Advantageously, the external coating is applied to the first and / or second external layer 31, 32 during a preceding aluminum lamination phase or, more generally, during the production of the external layer 31, 32. In other words, when the first and / or second external layer 31, 32 is applied, the at least one external layer 31, 32 is already coated by the external coating.

[0140] As one can note from the figures 1, la-lc, the individual layers 10, 21-22, 31-32 of the panel 1 are advantageously created as combined layers to form a "sandwich"-type structure, substantially flat and self-supporting; additionally, said layers advantageously present substantially uniform thicknesses, creating therefore a panel 1 of a substantially constant thickness.

[0141] Figure 5 schematically shows a plant 1000 for the creation of panel 1.

[0142] The plant 1000 comprises a first feeding station 1010, to feed the first aerogel layer 21 (and, if present, the second aerogel layer 22) to an operating zone Z.

[0143] If the second aerogel layer 22 is also present, the layers 21-22 are arranged in such a way that the first and second aerogel layers 21, 22 are distanced and substantially parallel between themselves in the operating zone Z.

[0144] The first and second aerogel layers 21, 22 define an interspace X between themselves.

[0145] The first feeding station 1010 may comprise more parts, like schematically shown in figure 5; for example, each part may comprise a respective unwinder, on which a respective aerogel layer 21, 22 is initially wrapped.

[0146] In the case in which only the first aerogel layer 21 is foreseen, the first feeding station 1010 may be formatted as only an unwinder.

[0147] The plant 1000 further comprises a second feeding station 1020, to feed the first external reinforcement layer 31 (and, if present, the second external reinforcement layer 32) to the operating zone Z. The second feeding station 1020 may be composed of more parts, as shown schematically in figure 5; for example, each part may comprise a respective unwinder, upon which is initially wound the respective external layer 31, 32. In the case in which only the first external layer 31 is foreseen, the second feeding station 1020 may be formatted as only an unwinder.

[0148] The plant 1000 further comprises a delivery station 1030, for delivering polyurethane foam.

[0149] The polyurethane foam is delivered in such a way as to form the structural core 10 in contact with the first aerogel layer 21. In case the second aerogel layer 22 is foreseen, the polyurethane foam is supplied in the interspace X.

[0150] As stated, the polyurethane foam, hardening, forms the structural core 10 in polyurethane foam and is fixed to the first aerogel layer 21. If the second aerogel layer 22 is also provided, the structural core 10 is fixed, with its first surface 10a, to the first aerogel layer 21, and with its second surface 10b to the second aerogel layer 22.

[0151] The delivery station 1030 is, in practice, a foaming station, configured to create the structural core 10.

[0152] The plant 1000 further comprises a fixing station 1040.

[0153] The fixing station 1040 is configured to fix, during the delivery of polyurethane foam, the first external reinforcement layer 31, externally to the first aerogel layer 21.

[0154] If the second external layer 32 is present, the fixing station 1040 is configured to fix the second external layer 32 to the second aerogel layer 22 or rather to the second surface 10b of the structural core 10, according to the considered embodiment.

[0155] As schematically shown in figure 5, the fixing station 1040 may comprise two parts, each one dedicated, respectively, to the fixing of the first external layer 31 onto the first aerogel layer 21 and the fixing of the second external layer 32 onto the second aerogel layer 22 or rather onto the second surface 10b of the structural core 10.

[0156] In case there is only an external layer 31, only one part of the fixing station 1040 can be foreseen, positioned at the interface to be treated.

[0157] In practice, the fixing station 1040 executes a spraying of the waterbased glue where the two surfaces are to be fixed together: for example, the spraying may be executed on the internal surface of the external layer 31, 32 and / or on the external surface of the aerogel layer 21, 32. The spraying may be further executed on the second surface 10b of the structural core 10, in the case where the second external layer 32 must be directly fixed to the structural core 10 itself. Being then brought into contact, and brought to a suitable temperature, the two surfaces remain reciprocally fixed together.

[0158] The plant 1000 further comprises a cutting station 1050, configured to cut to measure the panel 1 from the continuous semi-finished workpiece obtained from the work completed by the preceding stations.

[0159] Panel 1 may be employed to create ventilation ducts.

[0160] Such ducts typically have a long shape, with a section that can be square, rectangular, octagonal, elliptical, etc. depending on the design choice adopted.

[0161] The walls of each duct 120 are created by means of one or more panels 1. The dimensions of the panels 1 are therefore chosen appropriately; for example, the thickness of the panels 1 is defined so as to allow the necessary bends for the duct 120 to develop along the intended path.

[0162] In an embodiment, the panels 1 can present inclined borders, so as to facilitate, for example, the coupling between panels having different inclinations (e.g. 90° in the case of square or rectangular ducts). In this regard, figure 6a schematically shows a side view of two panels 1', 1" placed side by side, lying substantially on the same plane and ready for one to be rotated with respect to the other, so that the two inclined edges Bl, B2 coincide (fig. 6b).

[0163] It is noted that, preferably, in the situation schematically represented in figure 6a, the two panels 1', 1" remain connected to each other substantially thanks to the external layer (31 or 32) only.

[0164] Advantageously, one or more ducts 120 present openings or outlets that permit a fluid communication between the inside of the ducts 120 themselves and the outside environment.

[0165] As stated, the ducts 120 are preferably part of a ventilation system 100 (figure 3).

[0166] Please note that, in this context, ventilation refers to heating and / or ventilation and / or renewal and / or recirculation through ducts and / or filters and / or air venting.

[0167] In addition to the ducts 120, the ventilation system 100 comprises an active unit 110, configured to generate a flow of air. The active unit 110 can be made, for example, like a fan or other analogous device, adapted to create the flow of air channelled through the ducts 120.

[0168] Thanks to the openings / outlets present in the ducts 120, the ventilation system 100 can effectively perform its function in the environment in which it is installed.

[0169] The Applicant observes that, in an embodiment, the panels 1 realized by ducts 120 present only a first external layer 31 facing the inside of the duct itself; in this case, the layer 31, and its relative treatment described above, act exclusively on the air flow that is generated by the active unit 110, and therefore on the air the is exchanged with the environment in which the system 100 is installed.

[0170] In a different embodiment, the first external layer 31 can be present in correspondence with the external surface of the ducts 120, and therefore faces the environment in which the duct is installed. In this way, the aluminum and the relative coating can operate in such a way as to avoid the accumulation of mold, dust, cobwebs, etc. outside the system 100 ducts.

[0171] In an embodiment, the panels with which the ducts 120 are formed are equipped with both the first and the second external layer 31, 32; one of the two layers 31, 32 is facing the interior of the duct, while the other faces outward.

[0172] The Applicant observes that the panels in accordance with the present invention confer important advantages in terms of prevention of fires and non-propagation of flames, as well as in terms of non-generation of toxic fumes.

[0173] In particular, according to the thickness of the panel, the last embodiment can resist temperatures of about 600°C, up to 1200°C.

[0174] The panels in accordance with the present invention, besides being fireproof, perform their tasks in a completely satisfactory manner, creating lighter and cheaper structures compared to other noted techniques (e.g. plasterboard panels).

[0175] Compared to phenolic resin pipes, the panels which are the subject of this invention drastically reduce toxicity and do not pose particular problems or limits from a structural point of view for reasons of mechanical resistance.

[0176] Additionally, in case of fire, the panel which is the object of the present invention would not burn, and the fumes generated would be clear, not black, so as not to hinder the identification of the exit routes and the relative signs.

[0177] The Applicant observes that, following the tests undergone in accordance with the criteria defined by ASTM E84 - 22; Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials, the panel in accordance with the invention has demonstrated a Flame Spread Index (FSI) equal to 0, and a Smoke Developed Index (SDI) equal to 5.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Panel for ventilation ducts, comprising : a structural core (10), made of polyurethane foam and with a platelike shape, having a first surface (10a) and a second surface (10b) opposite said first surface (10a); a first aerogel layer (21), fixed to the first surface (10a) of the structural core (10); a first external reinforcement layer (31), fixed to the outside of said first aerogel layer (21).

2. Panel according to claim 1, comprising a second aerogel layer (22), fixed to the second surface (10b) of said structural core (10).

3. Panel according to claim 2, comprising a second external layer (32) fixed to the outside of said second aerogel layer (22).

4. Panel according to claim 1, comprising a second external layer (32), fixed to the second surface (10b) of said structural core (10).

5. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said structural core (10) has a thickness ranging between 5mm and 70mm; said first and / or second aerogel layers (21, 22) have a thickness ranging between 3mm and 50mm; said first and / or second external layers (31, 32) have a thickness ranging between 50 pm and 1000 pm.

6. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first and / or second external layers (31, 32) comprise one or more of:- aluminium;- galvanized iron;- iron associated with a PVC layer;- glass-reinforced PVC;- stainless steel.

7. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first and / or second external layers (31, 32) are fixed by means of a water-based glue.

8. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first and / or second external layers (31, 32) are externally coated with:- a primer;- 3-4 % by weight of zinc oxide;- 3-4 % by weight of copper oxide;- 5 % by weight of natural essential tea tree oil.

9. Panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first and / or second external layers (31, 32) further comprise one or more fireproof mineral fibres.

10. Ventilation duct having an elongate shape and delimited by one or more walls, wherein one or more of said one or more walls comprise one or more panels in accordance with any one of claims 1-9.

11. Ventilation system comprising: an active unit (110), configured to generate an air flow; one or more ventilation ducts (120) according to claim 10, associated with said active unit (110), for channelling said air flow.

12. Method for making panels for ventilation ducts, comprising: arranging a first aerogel layer (21);delivering polyurethane foam onto said first aerogel layer (21), wherein said polyurethan foam forms, as it hardens, a structural core (10) of polyurethane resin having a first surface (10a) and a second surface (10b) opposite said first surface (10a), and binds with its first surface (10a) to said first aerogel layer (21); fixing, while delivering said polyurethan foam, a first external reinforcement layer (31) to the outside of said first aerogel layer (21).

13. Method according to claim 12, comprising: arranging a second aerogel layer (22), spaced apart from and substantially parallel to said first aerogel layer (21), so as to define an interspace between said first and second aerogel layers (21, 22); wherein said polyurethane foam is delivered into said interspace.

14. Plant for the production of panels for ventilation ducts, comprising: a first feeding station (1010), for feeding at least one first aerogel layer (21) to an operating zone (Z); a second feeding station (1020), for feeding at least one first external reinforcement layer (31); a delivery station (1030), for delivering polyurethane foam onto said first aerogel layer (21), wherein said polyurethane foam forms, as it hardens, a structural core (10) of polyurethane resin having a first surface (10a) and a second surface (10b) opposite said first surface (10a), and binds with its first surface (10a) to said first aerogel layer (21); a fixing station (1040), for fixing, while delivering said polyurethane foam, said at least one first external reinforcement layer (31) to the outside of said first aerogel layer (21).

15. Plant according to claim 14, wherein said first feeding station (1010) is further configured to feed a second aerogel layer (22) to said operating zone (Z), so that said first and second aerogel layers (21, 22) in said operating zone (Z) are spaced apart from and substantially parallel to each other, and define an interspace (X) between said first and second aerogel layers (21, 22); wherein, in order to form said structural core (10), said delivery station (1030) is configured to deliver said foam into said interspace (X).

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