Modelling effects of micromixing on performance of continuous bioreactors

Abstract

The effects of micromixing on performance of continuous bioreactors is investigated by determination of upper and lower boundaries of substrate conversion. The bounds are evaluated on the basis of limiting micromixing dynamics, i.e. as completely segregated flow and as maximum mixidness flow. A probability density function of residence time (RTD) is applied, corresponding to a "tank in series" model. Numerical evaluation of the bounds is obtained by solving a set of nonlinear differential equations with asymptotic split boundary conditions. The dependence of the bounds in substrate conversion as functions on the Damkohler number is graphically presented.