AeroShield
Overview
AeroShield is a materials science company specializing in advanced aerogel materials tailored primarily for energy-efficient window applications. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, AeroShield emerged from research initiated at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The company was co-founded by Elise Strobach, Aaron Baskerville-Bridges, and Kyle Wilke. Over the years, AeroShield has raised a total funding of approximately $27 million, as it continues to develop its innovative products aimed at enhancing insulation in buildings through its ultra-clear silica aerogel technology.
Recent Developments
- March 2025: AeroShield marked a significant milestone in energy-efficient window production with the successful creation of the first full-size aerogels for entry doors. This advancement was a part of their collaboration with ODL, Inc., aimed at bringing these innovative products to a broader market.
- January 2025: The company announced a major upgrade to their manufacturing facility by installing a 25-ton critical point dryer. This equipment enables the production of large-scale aerogels, expanding their capabilities significantly.
- July 2024: AeroShield opened a new manufacturing facility in Waltham, Massachusetts, supported by $5 million in additional funding. This expansion was bolstered by investments from MassVentures and MassMutual Ventures.
- June 2024: AeroShield received a $14.5 million grant from the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) to further develop its aerogel manufacturing processes.
- October 2023: AeroShield secured $2.35 million in seed funding to enhance their production capabilities for energy-efficient window technologies.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2019 |
| Headquarters | Waltham, Massachusetts, USA |
| Founders | Elise Strobach, Aaron Baskerville-Bridges, Kyle Wilke |
| Total Funding Raised | $27.91M |
| Key Investors | Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, MassMutual Ventures, MassVentures |
| Industry | Materials Science, Energy Efficiency |
| Number of Employees | 25 |
Early History
AeroShield was conceived from research led by Dr. Elise Strobach at MIT, focusing on the development of transparent, super-insulating silica aerogels. The company was officially established in 2019 by Strobach, alongside Aaron Baskerville-Bridges and Kyle Wilke. The goal was to commercialize the technology to significantly improve energy-efficiency in building materials, primarily focusing on window and door insulation. Early support from MIT and initial funding rounds enabled AeroShield to refine its technology and begin scaling its production capabilities.
Company Profile and Achievements
AeroShield specializes in developing transparent, super-insulating aerogels that are more insulating than traditional glass and inert gases used in window manufacture. These aerogels enable the production of windows that are not only more energy-efficient but also lighter and thinner than conventional alternatives.
- 2019: Company founded as an MIT spinout.
- 2020: Completed pre-seed funding round and commenced prototype developments.
- 2021-2022: Received grants and awards to advance R&D efforts, including a competitive grant from the National Science Foundation.
- 2024: Launched a 12,000 square-foot manufacturing and R&D facility in Waltham, establishing a critical infrastructure for large-scale production.
- 2024: Secured a significant ARPA-E grant to enhance manufacturing processes.
- 2025: Collaborated with ODL, Inc. to integrate aerogel technology into commercial products, particularly for entry and patio doors.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, AeroShield is focused on expanding its market reach, leveraging its advanced manufacturing capabilities to produce high-performance insulating materials. Their products are noted for being 50% more insulating than conventional window solutions, offering significant energy savings. The company occupies a unique position within the materials science industry, with a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.
AeroShield's strategic partnerships, such as with ODL, Inc., and ongoing R&D investments continue to position it as a leader in aerogel technology applications for building insulation. Their innovations promise to lower heating and cooling costs significantly for consumers and contribute positively towards global energy conservation efforts.
Conclusion
AeroShield stands at the forefront of innovation in energy-efficient building solutions, driven by its groundbreaking work in aerogel technology. By transforming advanced materials initially developed for aerospace applications into viable commercial products, AeroShield not only enhances building efficiency but also furthers the cause of sustainable technology development. As the company progresses, it is poised to play a significant role in mitigating energy consumption within the construction industry, contributing to a future of more sustainable urban development.