8legs: Tafadzwa motsi

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Taking aerogel insulation from spacecraft to living space

Nanoplume in Cambridge is scaling a bio-based aerogel to compete with traditional insulators.
The startup aims to cut costs and energy use by avoiding traditional silica-based aerogels.
Nanoplume targets cold-chain packaging first, collaborating with a shipping company for tests.
Longer-term, the material could replace wall, roof, and floor insulation in buildings.
The aerogel is described as non-toxic and safe to eat, with stability under high temperatures and humidity.
Nanoplume aims to scale up production and optimize formulations for practical use.
The broader market for insulation is projected to reach $100 billion by 2030.
Nanoplume is a Carbon 13 venture with a small team, focusing on sustainable materials.
initial demonstrations show the aerogel with potential for feminine hygiene and oil cleanup uses.
The project underscores space-grade insulation becoming accessible for broader markets.
Researchers anticipate expanding applications beyond space-era insulation.

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