2000
A global challenge:
On his extensive travels in the early 2000s, Professor Philip Davies witnesses the challenges of water stress and the complexity and cost of desalination systems. He becomes convinced that there must be a more efficient method of water treatment.
2012
The technology is born:
While heading a research team at Aston University, Philip publishes his first paper outlining a design for a a high efficiency adaptation of the established reverse osmosis (RO) method of desalination.
Philip spends the next 10 years developing a better system of RO. Supported by £3m in research grants at Aston and Birmingham Universities, he investigates three orientations, builds five prototypes and implements four field trials on three continents.
2016
The entrepreneur.
Tim Naughton is looking for a thesis project for his mechanical engineering degree at Aston University. Philip's motivation to solve a global problem captures Tim’s imagination.
2018
The sum of minds:
Together Philip and Tim move to the University of Birmingham (UoB) to complete the build and test of a full-scale prototype. The first patent is registered.
2019
National recognition:
ICURe programme, funded by Innovate UK and supported by University of Birmingham Enterprise business incubator, provides a £200k grant for development of the 2nd generation full scale prototype.
2020
Growth partner joins
UoB Enterprise introduces Tim to Clean Engineering, who are attracted by the societal and commercial opportunity and the dedication of Philip & Tim.
2021
The spinout:
Clean Engineering provide the seed investment and Salinity Solutions Ltd is launched. A CrowdCube campaign raises £750k.
2022
Tested in the field:
First successful field trial of the commercial prototype.
2nd CrowdCube campaign raises a further £700k.
