Layered Silicate Insulation Panel Structure for Fireproof Low Weight

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing insulation materials face challenges in achieving high fire resistance, low weight, and effective thermal insulation while maintaining mechanical integrity, with organic materials being flammable and inorganic materials being heavy and potentially toxic.

Innovation Solution

A process for preparing an insulation panel precursor using organically modified layered silicates and fibrous components, forming a spatial structure with cavities filled with gas or foam, and treating it to create a self-supporting, water-resistant, and fireproof insulation panel.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If organic insulation materials (polystyrene, polyurethane foam) are used, then low weight and good insulation properties are achieved, but fire resistance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveweightVSAvoidfire resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses organically modified layered silicates as a composite material that combines the low weight of organic modifications with the fire resistance of inorganic silicate structures. The organic cations modify the interlayer spacing and properties while the silicate framework provides thermal stability and fire resistance, creating a material that achieves both lightweight and fireproof characteristics simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If inorganic insulation materials (mineral wool, glass wool) are used, then fire resistance is improved, but specific weight deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefire resistanceVSAvoidspecific weight
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the physical and chemical parameters of layered silicates through organic cation exchange. This substitution changes the interlayer spacing, hydrophobicity, and thermal properties of the silicate structure, enabling it to achieve better insulation performance at lower density while maintaining fire resistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Strength

If inorganic bonding agents (sodium silicate) are used with vermiculite, then mechanical strength is improved, but thermal insulation properties deteriorate due to compact structure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical strengthVSAvoidthermal insulation
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the natural porous and laminar structure of vermiculite and layered silicates, which creates numerous air pockets and heat barriers. The organically modified silicates maintain this open, porous structure rather than forming compact dense structures, thereby preserving thermal insulation properties while providing adequate mechanical strength through the layered architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution results in a lightweight, fireproof insulation panel with improved thermal insulation and mechanical strength, maintaining structural integrity under high temperatures and resisting water, suitable for construction applications.

Implementation Method 1

wherein the original interlayer cations of the layered silicates are replaced by organic ammonium or phosphonium ions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIon exchange: Ion Exchange

Implementation Method 2

at least partially removing the at least one solvent at temperatures of -100 to +95°C and/or reduced pressure to form a casting

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEvaporation: Evaporation

Implementation Method 3

Gases possess poor thermal conduction properties compared to liquids and solids and thus make a good insulation material. In order to further augment the effectiveness of a gas (such as air) as insulation material, it may be disrupted into small cells, which cannot effectively transfer heat by natural convection.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentEP3743379B1Process for preparing an insulation panel precursor
Publication Date: 2025.12.31 MUHL ENG SYST GMBH
  • EP3743379B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3743379B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3743379B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Insulation panel made from an insulation panel precursor comprising at least one modified layered silicate.