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Published on: June 6, 2025
Influence of airflow intensity on phytase production by solid-state fermentation
D E Rodríguez-Fernández1, J A Rodríguez-León, J C de Carvalho
1Department of Bioprocess Engineering and Biotechnology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), P.O. Box 19011, 81.531-980 Curitiba, Brazil. danernesto72@yahoo.com
Bioresource Technology
|June 19, 2012
Summary
Optimizing phytase production using Aspergillus niger F3 solid-state fermentation (SSF) requires precise airflow control. Maintaining 1 L air/kg medium/min airflow ensures efficient heat removal and microbial growth for scale-up.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Enzyme Engineering
- Industrial Microbiology
Background:
- Solid-state fermentation (SSF) is a promising method for enzyme production.
- Citrus peel offers a sustainable substrate for microbial fermentation.
- Controlling fermentation conditions is crucial for optimizing enzyme yields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate phytase production by Aspergillus niger F3 at a pilot scale.
- To determine the optimal aeration conditions for SSF of citrus peel.
- To identify scale-up criteria for phytase production.
Main Methods:
- Solid-state fermentation (SSF) of citrus peel using Aspergillus niger F3.
- Pilot-scale fermentation trials with varying aeration intensities.
- Monitoring of metabolic heat, oxygen supply, and enzyme production.
Main Results:
- The optimal airflow intensity was determined to be 1 L air/kg medium/min.
- This airflow resulted in a phytase yield of 65 U/g dry basis.
- Agitation did not significantly improve heat removal during SSF.
- Consistent results were observed when scaling up from 2 to 20 kg of medium.
Conclusions:
- Airflow intensity is a critical parameter for effective heat removal and oxygen supply in SSF.
- Maintaining optimal airflow is essential for successful scale-up of phytase production.
- Aspergillus niger F3 demonstrates efficient phytase production on citrus peel via SSF.
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