Fermentation Technology and Environmental Biotechnology

The FTEB course is divided into two sections: Microorganism characterization (i), and Bioreactor design (ii). Microorganism characterization deals with stoichiometry, kinetics, and thermodynamics of microbial processes in the field of FT and EB. Specific attention is paid to identification of parameters and parameter sensitivity. The bioreactor design section includes batch, fed-batch and continuous bioreactor operation. Specific attention is paid to mixing, gas-liquid mass transfer, biofilm and other biomass retention based bioprocesses, as well as integration of different microorganisms in a single process configuration. All lectures are supplemented with practical examples.

Students will elaborate in groups of 3-4 students a case study that should result eventually in the design of a bioprocess. As in the lecture series, students will first elaborate the properties of the microorganisms required and subsequently on the implementation in the bioreactor. Both parts of the case study will be discussed during poster presentations.