Advanced Materials for the Future of Construction

Marciel Gaier, CEO & founder of District 3 startup AeroNova, has always been motivated by using science to create meaningful solutions. With a PhD in Materials Science and Engineering and experience as a second‑time founder, he saw an opportunity to bring innovation to one of the world’s most traditional and emissions‑heavy industries: concrete.

AeroNova is developing a new category of lightweight, fireproof concrete by integrating aerogel, the lightest solid material known to science. Made of 99.99% air and originally used by NASA, aerogel allows concrete to be significantly lighter while maintaining strength. For precast manufacturers, lighter panels can create advantages in production, transportation and installation.

Marciel joined D3’s Tech Validation program with several ideas, but through interviews with industry stakeholders he discovered where the technology could deliver immediate value.

“Talking to companies helped us understand exactly where aerogel fits. Precast panels gain the most from being lighter, and that is where our material can have the biggest impact,” he explains.

Now part of D3’s Launch & Grow program, AeroNova is building its MVP, expanding its team and preparing a pre‑seed round to move the technology toward commercialization and strengthen its intellectual property.

For Marciel, the mission behind AeroNova is rooted in both technical curiosity and purpose.

“Construction is a very traditional field. I saw an opportunity to bring something new that can be more sustainable and also reduce costs for the industry. It needs to be a win on both sides,” he says.

He describes entrepreneurship as a continuous learning journey.

“An entrepreneur faces new challenges every day. You need to stay open minded, talk to people and be ready to adapt your idea based on what you learn,” he shares.

At D3, Marciel found a community that helps make that journey more manageable.

“Having a network of people who understand what you are going through makes a big difference. District 3 gives us space, support and connections that help us move forward,” he says.

AeroNova is now working toward pilot deployments and continues to advance its aerogel‑concrete technology from the lab toward practical applications in the built environment.