Energy-conversion efficiencies would be increased and operational lifetimes prolonged.

Silica aerogels have been shown to be attractive for use as thermal insulation materials for thermoelectric devices. It is desirable to thermally insulate the legs of thermoelectric devices to suppress lateral heat leaks that degrade thermal efficiency. Aerogels offer not only high thermal insulation effectiveness, but also a combination of other properties that are especially advantageous in thermoelectric device applications.