Development of dynamic compartment models for industrial aerobic fed-batch fermentation processes

Inhomogeneities in key cultivation variables (e.g., substrate and oxygen concentrations) have been shown to affect process metrics large-scale bioreactors. Being able understand these gradients is hence of interest from both an industrial academic perspective. One the main shortcomings current modelling approaches that volume change not considered. Volume increase a feature fed-batch fermentation processes. Existing models are restricted simulating snapshots (hundreds seconds) processes, which can last several weeks. This study presents novel methodology overcomes this limitation by constructing dynamic compartment for simulation strategy applied aerobic (40–90 m3) with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. First, it has validated numerically compartmentalization used captures mixing performance fluid dynamics. was done comparing times local concentration profiles snapshot simulations calculated CFD models. Subsequently, entire performed using model kinetics. The allows spatio-temporal characterization all glucose DO concentrations), as well quantification metabolic regimes cells experience over time. enables rapid assessment impact on (aerobic) processes be readily generalized any type bioreactor microorganism.