JiTiCube: effluentpolishing with algaepearls

JiTiBa is developing JiTiCube, a compact, containerised system that removes residual nitrogen and phosphorus from treated municipal and industrial wastewater. It adds a biological polishing step to existing treatment infrastructure, helping reduce nutrient discharge into rivers and other surface waters.

At the heart of the technology are algaepearls: living microalgae encapsulated in biodegradable gel beads. The algae absorb nutrients as water passes through the reactor, while the beads retain the biomass and make it easier to collect and replace.

A mini-pilot at Deltares operated autonomously for more than 72 hours on real municipal effluent. During these tests, phosphate concentrations below 0.01 ppm were measured, alongside a decrease in nitrate. These results provide the basis for further development and larger-scale testing.

JiTiCube brings this technology into an integrated 10-foot container, combining the reactor, pumping, lighting and controls. The design targets a treatment capacity of up to 5 m³/h, to be validated through pilot testing. Further trials will assess long-term removal performance, energy consumption, pearl lifetime and operating costs.

Our initial applications are municipal effluent polishing and industrial wastewater treatment, including the food and beverage sector. Additional research explores heavy-metal capture and useful applications for harvested algaepearl biomass.

We are looking for:
• Municipal and industrial partners offering suitable wastewater streams and pilot locations.
• Engineering and manufacturing partners supporting reactor construction, automation and integration.
• Distribution and commercial partners interested in future market introduction.

Cooperation can start with wastewater characterisation and small-scale testing, followed by an on-site pilot. JiTiBa’s planned commercial offering combines reactor installation with recurring algaepearl supply and service.

Interested in exploring a pilot or partnership? Contact bas@jitiba.com.