Keey Aerogel: Pioneering the Future of Green Insulation
January 29, 2025, 3:45 pm
In a world increasingly aware of its environmental footprint, Keey Aerogel emerges as a beacon of innovation. This French startup is not just another player in the insulation market; it’s rewriting the rules. With a recent €18 million Series A funding round, Keey Aerogel is poised to scale its production of the world’s first “green” aerogel. This is not just about insulation; it’s about sustainability, local economies, and energy independence.
Founded in 2015 by Francisco Ruiz, Keey Aerogel has carved a niche in the realm of silica aerogel. Unlike traditional aerogels, which are often produced in the U.S. and Asia using synthetic materials, Keey Aerogel utilizes construction waste. The process is as innovative as it is eco-friendly. By recycling carbon dioxide and ethanol in a closed-loop system, the company transforms waste into a high-performance thermal insulator. It’s a classic case of turning trash into treasure.
Aerogel is often described as “almost as light as air.” Composed of 98% air and 2% silica, it boasts remarkable insulating properties. Its applications span construction, aerospace, and even electric vehicles. In a world where energy efficiency is paramount, aerogel stands out as a game-changer. It can significantly enhance the safety of electric vehicle batteries, delaying thermal runaway—a critical issue where one battery fire can trigger a chain reaction. Keey Aerogel’s product can buy precious minutes, allowing passengers to escape danger.
The recent funding round was co-led by the SPI 2 fund, part of the France 2030 program, and WIND. This financial boost will enable Keey Aerogel to expand its production capabilities and establish a network of local factories. The vision is clear: to produce green aerogel from local waste, creating short supply chains that bolster the energy transition. This approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also promotes economic sovereignty within Europe.
The pilot plant in Alsace, inaugurated in 2022, is a testament to Keey Aerogel’s commitment to innovation. After seven years of research and development, the facility is now in its pre-industrial phase, supplying aerogel to major European construction clients. The new funding will facilitate the establishment of a second production facility, a crucial step toward scaling operations.
Keey Aerogel’s strategy is not just about production; it’s about collaboration. The company is working closely with battery manufacturers to integrate its aerogel into their products. This partnership is vital, especially as the automotive industry shifts toward electric vehicles. The demand for safe, efficient battery insulation is growing, and Keey Aerogel is well-positioned to meet this need.
The company’s approach to sustainability is not merely a marketing gimmick. It’s rooted in a genuine commitment to circular economy principles. By using waste as a raw material, Keey Aerogel not only reduces costs but also minimizes environmental impact. This model resonates with clients who are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions. The economic advantages of localized production further enhance the appeal, as companies can save on transportation and waste disposal costs.
Keey Aerogel’s mission aligns with broader European goals of energy independence and sustainability. In a landscape where reliance on imported materials poses risks, local production becomes essential. The company’s focus on creating a network of factories within Europe addresses these challenges head-on. It’s a strategic move that enhances resilience while promoting green technology.
The implications of Keey Aerogel’s success extend beyond insulation. This startup represents a shift in how industries can operate sustainably. By demonstrating that high-performance materials can be produced with minimal environmental impact, Keey Aerogel sets a precedent for others to follow. It’s a model of decarbonized reindustrialization, showcasing how innovation can drive ecological transition.
Investors are taking notice. The backing from Bpifrance and other key players underscores the confidence in Keey Aerogel’s vision. The company is not just another startup; it’s a pioneer in a rapidly evolving market. As it moves toward full industrialization, the potential for growth is immense. The focus on electric vehicles and construction markets positions Keey Aerogel at the forefront of two critical industries.
In conclusion, Keey Aerogel is more than a manufacturer of insulation; it’s a catalyst for change. By prioritizing sustainability, local production, and innovative technology, the company is redefining what it means to be a player in the materials market. As it scales operations and expands its reach, Keey Aerogel is not just building a business; it’s shaping the future of green technology. The journey has just begun, but the destination is clear: a greener, more sustainable world.
Founded in 2015 by Francisco Ruiz, Keey Aerogel has carved a niche in the realm of silica aerogel. Unlike traditional aerogels, which are often produced in the U.S. and Asia using synthetic materials, Keey Aerogel utilizes construction waste. The process is as innovative as it is eco-friendly. By recycling carbon dioxide and ethanol in a closed-loop system, the company transforms waste into a high-performance thermal insulator. It’s a classic case of turning trash into treasure.
Aerogel is often described as “almost as light as air.” Composed of 98% air and 2% silica, it boasts remarkable insulating properties. Its applications span construction, aerospace, and even electric vehicles. In a world where energy efficiency is paramount, aerogel stands out as a game-changer. It can significantly enhance the safety of electric vehicle batteries, delaying thermal runaway—a critical issue where one battery fire can trigger a chain reaction. Keey Aerogel’s product can buy precious minutes, allowing passengers to escape danger.
The recent funding round was co-led by the SPI 2 fund, part of the France 2030 program, and WIND. This financial boost will enable Keey Aerogel to expand its production capabilities and establish a network of local factories. The vision is clear: to produce green aerogel from local waste, creating short supply chains that bolster the energy transition. This approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also promotes economic sovereignty within Europe.
The pilot plant in Alsace, inaugurated in 2022, is a testament to Keey Aerogel’s commitment to innovation. After seven years of research and development, the facility is now in its pre-industrial phase, supplying aerogel to major European construction clients. The new funding will facilitate the establishment of a second production facility, a crucial step toward scaling operations.
Keey Aerogel’s strategy is not just about production; it’s about collaboration. The company is working closely with battery manufacturers to integrate its aerogel into their products. This partnership is vital, especially as the automotive industry shifts toward electric vehicles. The demand for safe, efficient battery insulation is growing, and Keey Aerogel is well-positioned to meet this need.
The company’s approach to sustainability is not merely a marketing gimmick. It’s rooted in a genuine commitment to circular economy principles. By using waste as a raw material, Keey Aerogel not only reduces costs but also minimizes environmental impact. This model resonates with clients who are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions. The economic advantages of localized production further enhance the appeal, as companies can save on transportation and waste disposal costs.
Keey Aerogel’s mission aligns with broader European goals of energy independence and sustainability. In a landscape where reliance on imported materials poses risks, local production becomes essential. The company’s focus on creating a network of factories within Europe addresses these challenges head-on. It’s a strategic move that enhances resilience while promoting green technology.
The implications of Keey Aerogel’s success extend beyond insulation. This startup represents a shift in how industries can operate sustainably. By demonstrating that high-performance materials can be produced with minimal environmental impact, Keey Aerogel sets a precedent for others to follow. It’s a model of decarbonized reindustrialization, showcasing how innovation can drive ecological transition.
Investors are taking notice. The backing from Bpifrance and other key players underscores the confidence in Keey Aerogel’s vision. The company is not just another startup; it’s a pioneer in a rapidly evolving market. As it moves toward full industrialization, the potential for growth is immense. The focus on electric vehicles and construction markets positions Keey Aerogel at the forefront of two critical industries.
In conclusion, Keey Aerogel is more than a manufacturer of insulation; it’s a catalyst for change. By prioritizing sustainability, local production, and innovative technology, the company is redefining what it means to be a player in the materials market. As it scales operations and expands its reach, Keey Aerogel is not just building a business; it’s shaping the future of green technology. The journey has just begun, but the destination is clear: a greener, more sustainable world.