Maximizing biomass concentration in baker's yeast process by using a decoupled geometric controller for substrate and...

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Chemical Engineering
• Bioprocess Engineering

Background:

• Biomass production in fed-batch baker's yeast processes is sensitive to glucose and dissolved oxygen levels.
• Optimal biomass concentration relies on the dynamic interplay between these critical parameters.
• Existing control strategies may not fully capture these complex interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a novel decoupled input-output linearizing controller (DIOLC) for maximizing biomass yield in fed-batch yeast cultivation.
• To investigate the controller's ability to manage the dynamic relationship between glucose and dissolved oxygen concentrations.
• To compare the DIOLC's performance against traditional PID control methods.

Main Methods:

• Global linearization and 2x2 input-output matrix inversion were employed for controller decoupling.
• The DIOLC was implemented online using a LabVIEW platform with TCP/IP communication.
• Fed-batch yeast cultivation experiments were conducted to evaluate the controller's efficacy.

Main Results:

• The DIOLC achieved a 23% improvement in biomass yield compared to a PID controller.
• Smoother control actions were observed with the DIOLC, contributing to biomass maximization.
• Online implementation demonstrated the practical feasibility and effectiveness of the DIOLC.

Conclusions:

• The DIOLC demonstrates superior capability in maximizing biomass production for fed-batch yeast processes.
• Effective management of glucose and dissolved oxygen dynamics is crucial for high biomass yields.
• The DIOLC offers a promising advanced control strategy for bioprocess optimization.