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Induction of Microstreaming by Nonspherical Bubble Oscillations in an Acoustic Levitation System

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Fluid dynamics in bubble column bioreactors: experiments and numerical simulations.

A Lübbert¹, T Paaschen, A Lapin

¹Institut für Technische Chemie, Universität Hannover, Callinstr 3, D-30167 Hannover, Germany.

Biotechnology and Bioengineering

|October 20, 1996

Summary

This study presents a dynamical model for bubble column bioreactors, treating processes on different scales independently. This approach aids in scaling up bioreactor models for various sizes, demonstrated with a beer fermentor.

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Area of Science:

Chemical Engineering
Fluid Dynamics
Bioprocess Engineering

Background:

Multiphase flow in bioreactors exhibits scale-dependent transport mechanisms.
Independent treatment of processes across different scales simplifies reactor modeling.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop a dynamical, three-dimensional model for bubble column bioreactors.
To enable independent modeling of processes on different observation scales for accurate simulation.
To facilitate bioreactor scale-up using a unified modeling approach.

Main Methods:

The model is based on the Navier-Stokes equation system for the overall reactor scale.
Gas phase dynamics are simulated using a Lagrangian approach, tracking bubble clusters.
The model's capability for scale-up is assessed through simulations.

Main Results:

The dynamical model accurately describes bubble column bioreactors on the reactor scale.
The Lagrangian tracking of bubble clusters effectively captures gas phase dynamics.
The model's performance was validated using a production-scale beer fermentor.

Conclusions:

Independent modeling of different scales is a valid approach for bioreactor simulation.
The presented model is suitable for describing and scaling up bubble column bioreactors.
The model provides a robust tool for optimizing bioreactor design and operation.