Mathematical model of a batch acetone-butanol fermentation
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 4, 2026

A Toolkit to Enable Hydrocarbon Conversion in Aqueous Environments
Published on: October 2, 2012
J Votruba1, B Volesky, L Yerushalmi
1Biochemical Engineering Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
Abstract:
A mathematical model for the batch culture of Clostridium acetobutylicum was formulated using experimental data for anaerobic solvent production. The model summarizes biochemical as well as physiological aspects of growth and metabolite synthesis by the production strain. The key fermentation rates are expressed and evaluated with regard to substrate consumption and butanol end-product inhibitory effects. Parametric sensitivity analysis of the batch process model was carried out, indicating the importance of the key process parameters.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Production of Alcohol
Batch vs Continuous Culture
Fates of Pyruvate
In aerobic organisms, pyruvate is metabolized via the citric acid cycle to produce reduced coenzymes NADH and FADH2. These coenzymes are then oxidized in the electron transport chain to produce ATP and, in the process, regenerate the NAD+ and FAD. As seen in some cell types and organisms, fermentation...
Molecular Models
Production of Organic Acids
Bioreactor Controls-III

