Adept Materials

Adept Materials, formerly known as Techstyle Materials Inc., operates within the advanced construction materials sector, focusing on enhancing the sustainability, durability, and comfort of buildings. The company was established in July 2018 by Derek Stein, a former Physics Professor at Brown University who now serves as the full-time CEO. The company's origins trace back to the 2014 Solar Decathlon Europe, where Stein co-directed the "Techstyle Haus" project, a solar-powered home featuring an innovative building envelope that significantly reduced energy consumption. This project highlighted the challenge that highly efficient envelopes often trap moisture, leading to issues like mold and rot. Adept Materials was founded to address this fundamental problem.

The company is developing multi-functional materials that passively manage the flow of heat and water vapor. This core technology, inspired by the way leaves regulate temperature and moisture, functions as a “vapor diode,” allowing water vapor to move more easily in one direction than the other. This system involves a pair of thin layers that work together to provide directional vapor control, regulate humidity by storing and releasing moisture, and manage temperature by storing and releasing heat. The technology can be incorporated into existing manufacturing processes as coatings, films, or additives. Adept Materials targets clients in the construction industry, including major homebuilders like D.R. Horton and PulteGroup, which are also strategic investors. Revenue will likely be generated from the sale of its advanced material products.

Adept's first product line set for commercialization is the Lilypad™ brand, a system of advanced interior paint and primer designed for high-humidity spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. This paint and primer system aims to provide a new line of defense against moisture damage and mold by transforming passive wall surfaces into responsive, functional layers that regulate humidity. In pilot tests, the product demonstrated a significant reduction in peak humidity levels. Beyond paints, the company is developing follow-on applications, including a water-resistive barrier product with directional moisture control capabilities. The technology's potential applications extend to other sectors facing moisture and humidity challenges, such as textiles, packaging, and healthcare.

Keywords: moisture control, building materials, construction technology, smart materials, vapor barrier, energy efficiency, humidity regulation, advanced coatings, sustainable building, cleantech