12/16/2015

Rates & Kinetics of Biological

Processes

Biological reactor

Modeled as batch or flow similar with nonbiological reactors, but
more complicated.

Most of the reactor is semibatch nutrients are fed continuously.

Batch system:-

Small amounts of material

Time variant reaction conditions (Slow reaction, longer residence time.)

Discontinuous production high cost of product, thus equipment cost
do not dominate process economics.

Easy to analyze (Product testing is easier)

Downtime (less time) for cleaning and filling

Rates & Kinetics of Biological

Processes

Biological Reactor

The operating characteristic of various reactor modes
Mode of Advantages Disadvantages
operation
Batch Simple. Suitable for small Downtime for loading and
production cleaning. Reaction conditions
change with time.
Continuous High production. Better product Requires flow control. Culture
quality due to constant maybe unstable over long
conditions. Good for kinetic periods.
studies.
Fed Batch Control environment conditions Requires feeding strategy to
e.g. substrate concentration obtain desired concentration.

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 12/16/2015

Rates & Kinetics of Biological

Processes

Biological Reactor

Kinetic considerations for reactor choice

Reaction kinetics Batch Continuous Fed Batch

Tank
Zero order OK OK Low conversion
First order Best Low conversion OK
only
Substrate Low initial Best Best
inhibition concentration
Product inhibition Best Low conversion Low conversion
only only
Production OK for Not suitable Best for
triggered by shift in temperature shift concentration
environment shift