Our History

A Vision to Solve a Global Challenge

Clean Drinking Water Solutions Pty Ltd was established with a clear purpose: to develop a portable, scalable solution capable of addressing the global challenge of unsafe drinking water.

Recognising that contamination in many regions involves not just microbes, but also organic pollutants and toxic heavy metals, the company sought a technology platform capable of delivering broad-spectrum treatment in a single, practical device.

Partnering with Advanced Nanomaterials Research

To bring this vision to life, Clean Drinking Water Solutions partnered with the Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN) at the University of Newcastle, Australia.

Under the leadership of Laureate Professor Ajayan Vinu, an internationally recognised expert in nanomaterials, the collaboration focuses on applying advanced electrospun nanofibre photocatalytic membranes and carbon–zeolite adsorption materials to a portable water purification system.

This partnership bridges laboratory innovation with real-world application.

From Research to Prototype Development

The project commenced with proof-of-concept development and laboratory validation of:

  • Sunlight-activated photocatalytic nanofibres for microbial inactivation and degradation of organic pollutants

  • High surface area carbon–zeolite materials for adsorption of heavy metals and other harmful components

Following early validation, the focus moved toward engineering a 3-litre, two-compartment portable bag integrating both technologies into a single deployable system.

Building Toward Commercial Deployment

The development pathway includes:

  • Engineering and fabrication of the portable bag architecture

  • System-level testing for durability and repeat use

  • Stability evaluation under varying environmental conditions

  • Preparation for pilot-scale and commercial production

The commercial roadmap outlines prototype production and testing in Australia, followed by validation and scaled manufacturing with initial market focus in India.

Leadership and Industry Engagement

The company is led by founders Sheba Nandkeolyar and Wayne Daley, supported by Laureate Professor Ajayan Vinu and the GICAN research team.

The initiative has been presented at industry events including the University of Newcastle Industry Open House Day 2024, reflecting the active collaboration between research and industry in advancing the technology.

Continuing the Journey

Today, Clean Drinking Water Solutions is progressing from laboratory research toward pilot deployment and commercial readiness — driven by a commitment to deliver safe drinking water through sunlight-activated nanotechnology.

The journey continues with a focus on scalability, sustainability, and measurable global health impact.