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Evolution of a phase separated gravity independent bioreactor
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523, USA.
Advances in Space Research : the Official Journal of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)
|January 1, 1992
Summary
A novel bioreactor design overcomes oxygen transfer limitations for space applications. The Mark III reactor achieves high oxygen transfer rates, enabling continuous carbon recycling for astronaut life support.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Aerospace Engineering
- Bioreactor Design
Background:
- Traditional bioreactors face challenges with oxygen transfer, limiting their use in space applications.
- Diffusional resistances in early bioreactor prototypes hindered oxygen supply for aerobic microbes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evolve a phase-separated, gravity-independent bioreactor with significantly enhanced oxygen transfer rates.
- To develop a bioreactor capable of supporting continuous carbon recycling for astronaut life support.
Main Methods:
- Iterative design improvements from an initial silicone membrane reactor to Mark I, Mark II, and finally Mark III.
- The Mark III reactor utilizes inverted phases with media inside silicone tubing and external gas application.
- Optimized oxygen transfer through increased Reynolds numbers and applied external pressure (4 atm).
Main Results:
- Oxygen transfer rates increased by a factor of ten with Mark I and II designs.
- The Mark III reactor achieved oxygen transfer intensities of 232 mmol O2/l/h, 1000 times greater than the initial prototype.
- This performance is comparable to conventional fermenters and sufficient for a 10-astronaut carbon load.
Conclusions:
- The Mark III bioreactor design successfully overcomes previous oxygen transfer limitations.
- This advanced bioreactor is a viable solution for supporting cell cultures in space for continuous life support and carbon recycling.