About Us

OUR JOURNEY▾
OUR TEAM▾
AWARDS▾

Our Journey

This story started when we decided to look for at solutions to the large quantities of printed electronic waste that was generated as part of our research project. We quickly learnt that there were limited options for the recovery of precious metals from electronic waste, and none that could be considered environmentally friendly. The existing methods used highly toxic chemical or pyrolytic processes to mine the electronic waste for precious metals. It was in response to this that we set out to create an alternative, starting at the beginning with the formulation of the conductive inks.

We designed a novel ink formulation that would allow us to recover the silver material from waste in an environmentally sustainable way. Furthermore the silver we recovered could be reused in the formulation of new conductive inks without the need for additional processing. By adopting this design for recycling approach we were able to create the first truly circular lifecycle for printed electronics. This innovation was tested in the lab at Swansea University where we were able to achieve recovery rates in excess of 80% from paper substrate and 95% from plastics. A patent for the technology, covering both the ink formulation and associated recycling process, was filed with the help of the AgorIP program in 2022.

With the technology protected, the next step was to identify how we could maximise the impact and help to pave the way for sustainable printed electronics. The team, led by Dr James Claypole, was granted a place on the Innovate UK ICURe Explore program to explore the commercial opportunity of the technology. The findings were pitched to an expert panel following 3 months of intense primary market research. The decision was that the creation of a spinout company was the best means to maximise impact from the technology. A further 3 months of business development training was provided as part of the ICURe Exploit program to shape the idea into a suitable business model and providing the opportunity to apply for the ICURe follow on grant.

Roll forward 6 months and with a successful grant application and angel investment we were able to official start on the 1st of October 2024.

Our Team

James

Dr James Claypole

CEO AND FOUNDER
James worked as a researcher at the Welsh Centre for Printing and Coating based in Swansea University for more than 10 years. Where he developed a formulation and method for recovering silver from printed electronics. A patent was filed for the technology with the help of the AgorIP and is currently the subject of an Innovate UK ICURe Explore project to determine the commercial potential.

James’ background is in the formulation of novel materials for printing and in the rheological measurement of process materials. He has worked on a number of notable research projects including; Advanced Rheology for Printed Large Area Electronics, Advanced Function Micro & Nano-Materials, which focused on the scale up of technology, and Heated Wearable Technology for Elite Sport, which created bespoke wearables used by British Olympic athletes during training and gold medal British athletes at the Olympic games in Tokyo.

Through the ICURe Explore project, James led the research team to explore the commercial potential of the patented recyclable silver ink technology. Following 3 months of market research and pitching to an expert panel, it was decided that the creation of a spinout company was the best route. James led the team through the ICURe Exploit program and was successful in applying for the ICURe follow on funded and securing Angel Investment. James started as CEO of Ail Arian in August 2024 to continue the journey to creating more sustainable printed electronics.

Hannah

Hannah Claypole

MARKETING AND SUSTAINABILITY OFFICER
Hannah graduated from Swansea University with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, combining her academic background with a passion for creativity and communication. She successfully ran a small creative design business, where she honed her technical skills, managed social media marketing, and delivered bespoke design projects.

With experience across both the private and public sectors, including roles in communications and outreach, Hannah brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as Marketing and Sustainability Officer at Ail Arian. She is currently studying a Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) course in digital marketing, ensuring her skills remain at the forefront of industry trends.

In addition to her professional achievements, Hannah enjoys photography, a hobby that complements her creative flair and attention to detail. At Ail Arian, she combines her diverse expertise to promote sustainable innovation and support the company’s mission to drive positive environmental change.

Laura

Laura Wood

INK DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Laura is the Ink Development Officer at Ail Arian, a forward thinking company focused on developing innovative, sustainable solutions. With a First Class Honours degree in Mechanical Engineering from Swansea University and an MSc by Research in Materials Engineering, Laura brings expertise in creating advanced materials and technologies with a strong emphasis on sustainability.

Before joining Ail Arian, Laura worked at the Welsh Centre for Printing and Coating, where she contributed to the development of new materials and formulations for industrial applications, including corrosion-resistant coatings for offshore marine turbines. This hands-on experience has allowed her to gain valuable insights into creating products that balance performance with environmental sustainability.

At Ail Arian, Laura is excited to be part of a forward-thinking team that shares her commitment to advancing sustainable engineering practices. She is focused on leveraging her academic background and early career experience to help develop eco-friendly, innovative solutions that meet the needs of a rapidly evolving industry.

Rachel

Rachel Atkinson

SENIOR INK DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Rachel has worked in the coatings industry for 4+ years and has extensive experience in coating formulation and analysis, dispersion chemistry and rheology. She has a background in polymer chemistry, her PhD research focused on the development of biobased block copolymers for use as thermoplastic elastomers. She joined AilArian in February 2025 as a senior ink development officer.
Danielle

Danielle Conway

ADMINISTRATOR
I am an experienced Office Administrator currently working at Ail Arian, holding an NVQ in Business and Administration. I gained my qualification while working at a solicitors’ firm, where I developed valuable insights into office management and legal processes. I studied Humanities at college before furthering my education at Swansea University, where I pursued a degree in Psychology and Counselling. This deepened my understanding of human behaviour and interpersonal relationships.

Alongside my administrative career, I ran my own business, which enabled me to develop a diverse skill set, including ICT, business management, accountancy, market research, and marketing. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I used my creativity to design and produce a range of reusable products, including face masks, which I sold through my online shop. I also donated hundreds to vulnerable individuals and ran virtual tutorials to educate others on the importance of reducing waste and creating sustainable alternatives.

Passionate about sustainability, I strongly believe in promoting a circular economy and minimising environmental impact. My commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with Ail Arian’s focus on recycling and environmental responsibility, making it a natural fit for me. I take pride in contributing to a company that shares my values and supports efforts to build a more sustainable future.

Awards

LOPEC_logo

Finalists in the LOPEC Start Up Business Awards in February 2025

UK-Awards

Finalists in the “Clean Tech Startup of the Year” category at the UK Start Up Awards (Wales)