Aerogel composite panels, as a new type of highly efficient insulation material that has gained significant attention in recent years, leverage their nano-porous structure to offer extremely low thermal conductivity and lightweight yet high-strength physical properties. They are gradually expanding their application in building exterior energy-saving systems, especially suitable for various construction projects that have high energy-saving standards, limited renovation space, or a focus on the performance throughout the entire lifecycle. 
I. Energy-saving and Performance Characteristics of Aerogel Composite Panels 
Outstanding thermal insulation performance 
The thermal conductivity of aerogel composite panels can be as low as 0.015–0.023 W/(m·K). Under the same thermal resistance requirements, the thickness needed for these panels is only 1/3–1/2 of that of traditional insulation materials. They are particularly suitable for energy-saving renovation projects where the thickness of the exterior walls is limited or the shapes are complex. 
2. Lightweight structure 
The material density is usually between 150 and 250 kg/m³, significantly reducing the additional load on the exterior walls, which is beneficial to the structural safety. It is particularly suitable for energy-saving renovations of existing buildings and does not require substantial reinforcement of the underlying structure. 
3. Excellent weather resistance and stability 
It has high hydrophobicity (hydrophobicity rate ≥ 99%), is not prone to absorb water in humid environments, has strong resistance to freeze-thaw cycles, and has low thermal performance degradation during long-term use. It is suitable for harsh climate regions such as high humidity, large temperature differences, and coastal areas. 
4. Strong adaptability in construction 
The plate specifications are uniform and easy to cut. The conventional external insulation construction method of "adhesive bonding and anchoring" can be adopted. It is compatible with various decorative systems and is convenient for the promotion and application of the project. 
II. Main Application Scenarios 
Energy-saving renovation of existing buildings 
For example, upgrading the exterior insulation of old residential areas and historical buildings, without significantly altering the building's facade or structure, can significantly improve energy efficiency. 
Public Buildings and Green Buildings 
Newly-built or renovated projects in schools, hospitals, office buildings, etc. that have high requirements for insulation and energy conservation. 
Regions with harsh climates 
Suitable for areas with severe cold in winter, intense heat in summer or large temperature differences between day and night, it effectively enhances the thermal stability of the building's enclosure structure. 
Special structural parts 
For areas prone to heat bridges such as the periphery of doors and windows openings, balconies, and decorative lines, the use of aerogel composite boards can be employed for local enhanced insulation. 
III. Key Precautions During Construction 
System compatibility design 
The aerogel composite board should be integrated with the corresponding bonding mortar, facing layer, and decorative materials to form a complete external insulation system. This is to prevent problems such as cracking and detachment caused by incompatible material properties. 
Standard laying and anchoring 
The panels should be laid in a staggered manner in the horizontal direction, with the vertical joints staggered by no less than 200mm. The number of anchor bolts and their embedding depth must comply with the design requirements to ensure the system's wind resistance and safety durability. 
Moisture-proof storage and construction 
During the material storage and construction process, it is necessary to keep it dry and avoid being soaked by rain. At the construction site, measures should be taken to prevent moisture and rain, and construction should not be carried out on rainy days. 
Detailed node processing 
Sealing and reinforcement treatments should be carried out around the window frame, through the wall pipe fittings, and at the expansion joints. Special accessories should be used to avoid thermal bridges and water seepage risks. 
IV. Summary 
The aerogel composite board, with its advantages of ultra-thinness, high efficiency, light weight, safety, durability and reliability, is driving the development of building exterior insulation systems towards higher performance. Although the current cost is still higher than that of traditional materials, its advantages in energy-saving benefits, space saving and long-term maintenance make it demonstrate significant technical and economic value in ultra-low energy buildings, green renovations and high-quality construction projects. With the continuous maturation of material processes and the large-scale development of the industry, the aerogel composite board is expected to become an important technical choice in the field of building energy conservation in the future.