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A Novel Bioreactor for High Density Cultivation of Diverse Microbial Communities

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Fluidized-bed fermenters: A steady-state analysis.

¹Department of Chemical Engineering, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14260.

Biotechnology and Bioengineering

|September 1, 1982

Summary

A new mathematical model optimizes fluidized-bed fermenter design by predicting biomass particle size during steady-state operation. This model enhances the design and optimization of both tower fermenters and supported-film bioreactors.

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Area of Science:

Biochemical Engineering
Mathematical Modeling

Background:

Fluidized-bed fermenters are crucial in bioprocessing.
Existing models often require biomass particle size as an input, limiting their applicability.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop a novel mathematical model for fluidized-bed fermenter design and optimization.
To predict biomass particle size as an emergent property of the steady-state process.

Main Methods:

Developed a new mathematical model incorporating solids mixing dynamics.
Included an axial dispersion term for liquid mixing variations.
Utilized a variable transformation to avoid computer-based solutions.

Main Results:

The model predicts biomass particle size, eliminating it as a required input.
It explains differences between tower and supported-film bioreactors based on biomass effects on settling velocity and stratification.
Accurately predicts biomass concentration profiles in different fermenter types.

Conclusions:

The presented model offers a more integrated approach to fluidized-bed fermenter design.
It simplifies the optimization process by predicting key parameters.
Applicable to both tower fermenters and supported-film bioreactors.