Aspen Aerogels to reopen after East Providence explosion injured workers

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Aspen Aerogels says it expects to reopen at its East Providence manufacturing facility later this month following last month’s industrial explosion that injured 11 workers.

he company said it has been working with local, state, and federal agencies while conducting mechanical, operational, and safety reviews before reopening the plant.

The explosion happened April 8 and investigators said preliminary findings indicate the blast originated from a high-temperature oven inside the facility. All 11 employees taken to hospitals after the incident were later released.

According to company filings, Aspen Aerogels plans to gradually resume production, though the final reopening timeline will depend on safety clearances and ongoing inspections. The incident temporarily halted operations and contributed to financial challenges for the company during the first quarter of 2026.