Phononic Vibes Company Profile

Background

Overview

Phononic Vibes is an Italian deep-tech company specializing in innovative solutions for noise and vibration reduction through the application of metamaterial technology. Established in 2018 as a spin-off from Politecnico di Milano, the company leverages advanced research from both Politecnico di Milano and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to develop cutting-edge acoustic and vibration control materials.

Mission and Vision

The company's mission is to revolutionize noise and vibration management by introducing sustainable and high-performance materials that outperform traditional solutions. Phononic Vibes envisions a future where their technologies significantly enhance environmental comfort and industrial efficiency across various sectors.

Primary Area of Focus

Phononic Vibes focuses on the design and production of metamaterials engineered to control and isolate noise and vibrations. These materials are characterized by their periodic architected topology, allowing for tailored acoustic and vibrational properties independent of the raw materials used.

Industry Significance

Operating within the deep-tech sector, Phononic Vibes addresses critical challenges in noise and vibration management, offering innovative solutions that contribute to environmental sustainability and improved quality of life. Their work positions them as a key player in the advanced materials industry, particularly in the fields of acoustics and vibration control.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Innovation in Acoustic Solutions: Developing advanced materials that provide superior noise and vibration control compared to conventional methods.

• Sustainability: Implementing circular economy principles by utilizing recyclable materials and reducing CO₂ emissions in product development.

• Market Expansion: Strengthening partnerships and expanding the customer base across infrastructure, automotive, appliances, and construction sectors.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Metamaterials Engineering: Designing materials with engineered properties for targeted acoustic and vibrational performance.

• Noise and Vibration Control: Providing solutions that effectively mitigate noise and vibrations in various applications.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Metamaterial Technology: Employing materials with periodic structures to achieve desired acoustic and vibrational properties.

• Circular Economy Practices: Incorporating sustainable design and manufacturing processes to minimize environmental impact.

Primary Markets Targeted

• Infrastructure: Developing solutions for noise and vibration control in transportation and urban development projects.

• Automotive: Integrating noise and vibration reduction materials into vehicle components to enhance comfort and performance.

• Appliances: Reducing noise in household appliances to improve user experience.

• Construction: Addressing noise disturbances in building sites through innovative panel designs.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

• Seed Round (January 2019): Raised €500,000 led by Poli360, a fund dedicated to technology transfer managed by 360 Capital, with participation from Pantecnica SpA.

• Series A Round (October 2020): Secured €2.3 million led by Eureka! Fund I – Technology Transfer, managed by EUREKA! Venture SGR, with continued support from Poli360 and Pantecnica SpA.

• Series B Round (July 2022): Completed a €6 million capital increase led by CDP Venture Capital SGR through the "Corporate Partners I" Fund, with participation from Eureka! Fund I – Technology Transfer and 360 Capital.

Total Funds Raised

Approximately €8.8 million across three funding rounds.

Notable Investors

• CDP Venture Capital SGR: Led the Series B round, focusing on enhancing Italy's manufacturing sector.

• Eureka! Venture SGR: Participated in the Series A and B rounds, emphasizing technology transfer and deep-tech investments.

• 360 Capital: Involved in the seed and Series B rounds, supporting innovative startups in Europe.

Utilization of Capital

The funds have been allocated towards technological development, product commercialization, expanding the customer portfolio, and strengthening the team with new competencies related to product manufacturing and marketing.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

• MetaWindow: A transparent and sound-absorbing noise panel developed in collaboration with Deutsche Bahn, designed for infrastructure applications.

• Lightweight Metamaterials: Sound-insulating panels for automotive applications, offering 30% less weight than standard solutions.

• Building Site Panels: Innovative panels aimed at reducing noise disturbances in construction sites, developed in partnership with major building contractors.

Stages of Development

• MetaWindow: Successfully developed and tested with Deutsche Bahn.

• Lightweight Metamaterials: In pre-production phase for automotive applications.

• Building Site Panels: Under development with ongoing partnerships.

Target Conditions

• MetaWindow: Urban noise pollution in transportation infrastructure.

• Lightweight Metamaterials: Noise reduction in automotive environments.

• Building Site Panels: Noise disturbances in construction sites.

Anticipated Milestones

• MetaWindow: Deployment in infrastructure projects.

• Lightweight Metamaterials: Integration into vehicle manufacturing.

• Building Site Panels: Implementation in construction projects.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• Metamaterial Arrays: Engineered structures with periodic topologies to achieve desired acoustic and vibrational properties.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Acoustic Diagnostics: Advanced lab facilities for testing and refining noise and vibration control solutions.

• Circular Economy Practices: Designing products with recyclable materials and sustainable manufacturing processes.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Luca D'Alessandro: CEO and Co-Founder. With a background in engineering, Luca has been instrumental in leading the company's strategic direction and technological development.

• Andrea Boeri: Chairman. Brings extensive experience in industrial and financial sectors, contributing to the company's governance and strategic oversight.

• Stefano Caverni: CTO and Co-Founder. Specializes in the technical aspects of metamaterial design and application, driving innovation within the company.

• Giovanni Capellari: COO and Co-Founder. Oversees operations and ensures efficient execution of projects and partnerships.

• Braghin Francesco: Board Member. Provides strategic guidance and insights, leveraging his experience in industrial applications.

Leadership Changes

No significant leadership changes have been reported in recent times.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for noise and vibration control solutions is growing, driven by increasing awareness of environmental noise pollution and its impact on health. Advancements in materials science, particularly in metamaterials, are opening new avenues for innovative solutions.

Competitor Analysis

• Soundbox Acoustic: Provides soundproofing solutions for various applications, focusing on comfort and safety.

• Koikas Acoustics Pty Ltd: Specializes in noise and vibration consulting, offering tailored solutions for diverse industries.

• Impulsion Acoustique: Offers advanced consulting services in acoustics and vibration, emphasizing innovative approaches.

• KP Acoustics Group: Consultants in acoustics, noise, and vibration, known for creative problem-solving and technical expertise.