The invention provides hydrophobic silica wet gel, hydrophobic silica aerogel, and methods that can be used to form an enhanced hydrophobic silica aerogel sheet having an advantageous combination of properties. Some embodiments of the invention provide a hydrophobic silica aerogel having advantageous properties, such as desirable performance on visible transmission, haze, or both.

The invention provides hydrophobic silica wet gel, hydrophobic silica aerogel, and methods that can be used to form an enhanced hydrophobic silica aerogel sheet having an advantageous combination of properties. Some embodiments of the invention provide a hydrophobic silica aerogel having advantageous properties, such as desirable performance on visible transmission, haze, or both.

A fire-resistant gypsum panel comprises: a gypsum core layer comprising set gypsum and a high temperature sag-resistant material including mineral wool in an amount between 0.2% and 3.0% by weight of gypsum.

The invention provides hydrophobic silica wet gel, hydrophobic silica aerogel, and methods that can be used to form an enhanced hydrophobic silica aerogel sheet having an advantageous combination of properties. Some embodiments of the invention provide a hydrophobic silica aerogel having advantageous properties, such as desirable performance on visible transmission, haze, or both.

The invention provides silica wet gel, silica aerogel, and methods that can be used to form an enhanced silica aerogel sheet having fewer optical defects along with other desirable properties.

Due to its ability to deliver direct-from-solar thermal energy without conversion, and the low-temperature nature of technology, Concentrating Solar Thermal (CST) technology is less complex, less expensive, and therefore most suitable among Solar Thermal Energy (STE) technologies for residential and small business heating, hot water, and other thermal energy applications. The presently disclosed technology is focused on systems and methods for successfully scaling CST technology, including novel and inventive construction techniques, arrangements, and materials. Scaling CST technology allows for it to be more affordable, easy to install, easy to maintain, and easy to operate, even in smaller-scale installations, such as at a residence or small business.