Continuos IBE fermentation by immobilized growing Clostridium beijerinckii cells in a stirred-tank fermentor.
The potential of continuous isopropanol-butanol-ethanol (IBE) fermentation by Ca-alginate-immobilized Clostridium beijerinckii cells in a continuous stirred-tank reactor is investigated. A mathematical model is presented to describe steady-state reactor performance. It appeared to be possible to use the biocatalyst particles repeatedly for successive fermentations (at least three times for a total duration of two months). Reactor productivity was 6-16 times higher than that of a batch fermentation (free cells), while the solvents yield was also increased. Measurements of substrate, product, and biomass concentrations were only partially in agreement with the model; however, a solid basis for further technological developement of the process has been laid.
Biotechnology Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Jaffalaan 9, 2628 BX Delft, The Netherlands.
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PG
Krouwel
W J
WJ
Groot
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NW
Kossen