AERO MATERIALS

Germany-based AERO MATERIALS uses a unique material, inspired by 'aero graphene' developed at Kiel University, made of over 99.9 % air. It's ultra-light, electrically conductive, mechanically resilient and scalable. 

The Kiel University spin-off is working to bring these aero‑materials from the lab into industrial use. The Company aims to optimize technical motion systems and pneumatic applications. The material opens up four key application areas: actuation for fast, precise, and energy-efficient movements; filtration, where the conductive, open-pored structures allow for self-cleaning filters; optics, where the material can direct and scatter light, enabling highly energy-efficient lighting solutions; and electromagnetic shielding for sensitive electronics—such as drones or other mobile devices where every gram counts.

Aero materials are based on tetrapodal zinc oxide (t-ZnO) structures – tiny particles shaped like four-armed stars. Researchers form this basic structure into a three-dimensional scaffold and infiltrate it with a mixture of water and graphene - or with silicate. The zinc oxide is then chemically removed. What remains are hollow tubes with ultrathin nanometer-scale walls, forming an open network of pure graphene sheets or glass structures with extremely low density – almost entirely air. The open-pored structure remains intact, allowing air and liquids to flow through freely.

The team’s first market focus is actuation, such as components that convert electrical signals into mechanical motion. In micro-pneumatics, where tiny airflows are used to move machine parts with precision, the nanomaterial comes into play: graphene is extremely light, conductive, and stable. When an electric current passes through the structure, it heats up within milliseconds. The trapped air expands, generating mechanical force – capable of cutting, moving, or switching automated systems. A material weighing just a few milligrams can lift up to 2 kilograms. Unlike conventional pneumatic systems, this technology requires no external compressor. Actuation is generated directly within the material. 

Between 2015 and 2025, several patents were granted, held by Kiel University. With initial funding secured, the team is now focusing on pilot customers and scaling up production. The spinoff was supported by the university’s Technology Transfer Office, particularly regarding intellectual property rights.