Dive deep into the cutting-edge world of energy tech startups with Jason and Nada as they sit down with Tianshu (Sean) Zhai and Chen-Yang Lin, co-founders of HEXASpec, on the Energy Tech Startups Podcast. Discover how HEXASpec's award-winning technology is revolutionizing heat management in semiconductor chips, addressing the critical issues of energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions. Fresh off their win at the Rice Lily Pitch Competition, Sean and Chen-Yang share insights into their journey from PhD students at Rice University to pioneering entrepreneurs in the AI and semiconductor industries.

Sean and Chen-Yang, both material scientists, delve into how their fascination with materials led to the development of groundbreaking technology from their lab. They discuss their transition from academia to entrepreneurship, driven by the need to solve real-world problems in heat management.
Heat is the most common form of waste in electronic devices. Traditional packaging materials for semiconductor chips have poor thermal conductivity, leading to inefficiencies and overheating in consumer and enterprise applications alike.
With AI and GPU technologies emerging, effective heat management becomes even more crucial. HEXASpec is at the forefront, developing next-generation materials to meet these demands.
Learn about the complexities of the semiconductor value chain and the importance of finding the right market fit through extensive customer interviews.
Sean and Chen-Yang initially targeted HVAC applications before pivoting to semiconductors, showcasing the importance of adaptability and customer feedback in startup success.
HEXASpec is poised to make a significant impact on the semiconductor industry, with plans to expand their technology's applications and continue their innovative research.
Tianshu (Sean) Zhai and Chen-Yang Lin are the brilliant minds behind HEXASpec. As recent winners of the Rice Lily Pitch Competition, they bring a wealth of knowledge and passion for material science, with a focus on revolutionizing heat management in semiconductor technologies.

00:00 - Intro
01:00 - What is Heat Management
05:20 - Current Materials in Use
08:15 - Discovering and Developing New Material
10:52 - Market Entry Strategy
16:43 - Pivoting in Business
20:30 - Market Research for Beginners
21:24 - Building a Prototype
23:05 - Fundraising Tips
29:02 - Lessons from Competitions
35:49 - Student Entrepreneurship
39:37 - Houston’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
42:04 - Houston’s Hidden Gems
47:21 - Innovation Ecosystem Gaps
49:40 - Supporting NanoSono
50:13 - Founders' Podcast Thoughts

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