This research contains the modeling of the velocity profile of a bioreactor with recycle; the concept of biochemical process. The biochemical process adopted is fermentation and a plug-flow fermenter (PFF) was taken as a case study. The derivation of workable model equations for monitoring and predicting the velocity profile of a PFF were obtained, together with obtaining the model equations for investigating the effect of microbial and substrate concentrations on the discharge coefficient, bioreactor’s volume. Constant data were sourced from literatures, together with hypothetical values to simulate the derived model equations using Mathlab.
Effect of biomass concentration on discharge coefficient, shows that increase in biomass concentration brings a corresponding increase in the discharge coefficient as well as the bioreactor’s volume revealed that substrate concentration is depleting alongside with bioreactor’s volume follows the same trend of change when substrate concentration is decreasing irrespective of whether the length or area of the bioreactor is varied. The effect of microbial concentration on bioreactor volume when area and length of bioreactor are varied reveals that the process followed same trend only that there is a presence of lag phase upon the influence of inhibitors.
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
2. MATERIAL AND METHODS
2.1 Derivation of model equations
3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4. CONCLUSIONS
5. NOMENCLATURE
6. REFERENCES
Research Objectives and Core Themes
This research focuses on the development and simulation of predictive mathematical models for the velocity profile of a plug-flow fermenter (PFF) incorporating biomass recycle. The primary objective is to monitor and predict reaction rate dynamics by evaluating how microbial and substrate concentrations influence the discharge coefficient and bioreactor volume under varying conditions.
- Mathematical modeling of biochemical processes in plug-flow fermenters.
- Integration of microbial population dynamics and substrate depletion rates.
- Use of MATLAB for numerical simulation of derived model equations.
- Analysis of bioreactor efficiency in relation to recycle streams and biomass concentration.
- Investigation of physical parameters including bioreactor length and cross-sectional area.
Excerpt from the Book
1. INTRODUCTION
The variation in the concentration of substrate or microbial with respect to time. In other words, it is how fast or slow a biochemical reaction takes place. The velocity (reaction rate) profile of a bioreactor is monitored in any manufactured or engineered device or system that supports a biologically active environment.
For the purpose of this work we are taking a look at fermentation as a biochemical process taking place in a plug- flow Bioreactor (Fermenter) with recycle (Ukpaka, et al., 2009; Octave, 2007; William, 2007; Abashar and Butt, 200). Fermentation processes utilize microorganisms to convert solid or liquid substrates into various products. The substrates used vary widely, any material that supports microbial growth is a potential substrate. Similarly, fermentation-derived products show tremendous variety. Commonly consumed fermented products include bread, cheese, sausage, picked vegetables, beer, wine, citric acid, and soy sauce (Isla, et al., 1983., Jenning, 1991., Shah, 1969 & Copplestone).
Summary of Chapters
1. INTRODUCTION: Provides a background on biochemical fermentation processes and outlines the study's focus on modeling velocity profiles in plug-flow bioreactors with recycle.
2. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Describes the derivation of the governing mathematical model equations and the boundary conditions used to define the bioreactor dynamics.
3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Presents the findings from the MATLAB simulations, analyzing the influence of microbial population growth, substrate concentration, and bioreactor dimensions on the system's performance.
4. CONCLUSIONS: Summarizes the study, confirming the validity of the modeling approach and its potential applicability to broader engineering challenges.
5. NOMENCLATURE: Lists all mathematical symbols and abbreviations used throughout the publication for clarity.
6. REFERENCES: Provides a comprehensive list of literature and scholarly works consulted during the research.
Keywords
Bioreactor, Plug-flow fermenter, Velocity profile, Microbial concentration, Substrate concentration, Fermentation, Recycle stream, MATLAB, Discharge coefficient, Biochemical process, Reaction kinetics, Modeling, Biomass, Bioreactor volume, Simulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research?
The research is dedicated to the mathematical modeling and computer-based simulation of velocity (reaction rate) profiles within a plug-flow bioreactor equipped with a recycle system.
Which key biochemical process is examined?
The study examines the fermentation process, utilizing a plug-flow fermenter as a case study to investigate how microorganisms convert substrates into products.
What is the main research question or goal?
The goal is to develop workable model equations that can monitor and predict the velocity profile of a fermenter while observing the effects of varying biomass and substrate concentrations on the system.
Which scientific methodology is employed?
The author uses a mathematical approach to derive mass balance equations and subsequently employs MATLAB software to simulate these equations using hypothetical and literature-sourced data.
What is covered in the main section?
The main section covers the derivation of model equations for biomass and substrate balance, followed by an analysis of results generated through computational simulations regarding discharge coefficients and bioreactor volume.
What are the characterizing keywords of the study?
The study is characterized by keywords such as bioreactor, plug-flow fermenter, microbial concentration, substrate concentration, fermentation, recycle, and mathematical modeling.
How does the recycle stream affect the bioreactor performance?
The recycle stream allows for a higher concentration of microorganisms to be maintained within the bioreactor, enabling it to operate at higher flow rates and increasing overall efficiency.
What does the simulation reveal about microbial growth?
The simulation shows that an increase in microbial population leads to a corresponding increase in the discharge coefficient, which has a positive impact on the overall yield of the process.
How does substrate concentration relate to bioreactor volume?
The findings indicate that a decrease in substrate concentration leads to an increase in the bioreactor's volume, suggesting that the vessel appears larger for lower concentrations of substrate.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Chukwuemeka Ukpaka (Autor:in), 2020, Development of a predictive model for a velocity profile of a biofermenter using three different type of reactors, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/977999
