Biofouling is recognized in the industry as being one of the key issues in the multi-billion market for reverse osmosis membranes. BiAqua’s technology is unique in that it uses enzymes for the selective and near complete removal of phosphate from water, which largely prevents the growth of bacteria and translates into direct and indirect benefits for operation of desalination equipments.
BiAqua’s core technology is based on the enzyme ferritin from the archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus. Collaboration with Eucodis has now led to the manufacture of the first ever large batch (1 m3) of recombinant ferritin. With this large batch, pilot-testing of BiAqua’s technology at industrial water sites across the Netherlands will commence shortly.
Monica Paravidino, R&D Manager of BiAqua stated, “The delivery of high purity recombinant ferritin on this scale by Eucodis marks a major milestone for the company. It is the first step to prove the scalability of our technology. We look forward to continue the collaboration with Eucodis, as their expertise in the field of enzyme development and production is key to the introduction of our enzyme-based solution into the market.”
Jan Modregger, Head of Eucodis R&D, stated, “BiAqua’s intriguing technology of using ferritin for water treatment shows the enormous potential of biotechnical solutions for our current and future environmental challenges in providing pure water. We are proud that BiAqua has chosen Eucodis as their key partner for ferritin expression and are looking forward to work with BiAqua on the establishment of commercial scale ferritin production.”
About BiAqua B.V.
BiAqua, a Dutch technology company, develops innovative solutions for global water challenges. The latest developments in biotechnology are taken to develop products and solutions for water treatment. BiAqua’s first product is an adsorption process for selective phosphate removal based on ferritin, the main iron-storage protein in living organisms, to counter biofouling in water treatment systems. The protein-based technology out competes other solutions currently on the market. The technology is low cost, has broad usability, and works tremendously fast and reliably in the prevention of the growth of bacteria. The technology can be applied and retrofitted in standard filter systems that are currently widely applied in the industry. BiAqua is a spin-off from the Technical University of Delft and is funded by Dutch Technology Fund I, managed by Icos Capital Management.
www.biaqua.nl