Systematic Development of Miniaturized (Bio)Processes using Process Systems Engineering (PSE) Methods and Tools

The development of new chemical engineering design tools is essential for the implementation of the latest technology in the manufacture of chemical and other products. The focus of this paper is on process systems engineering (PSE) methods and tools, and especially on how such PSE methods and tools can be applied to speed up or support systematic bioprocess development at miniature scale. In this context, the term bioprocess is interpreted broadly, and includes both biocatalysis (enzyme or resting cell conversion) as well as fermentation (growing cell conversion). In the following section, we first provide a brief introduction to the main drivers of biocatalysis and fermentation process development. The paper also contains a short overview of PSE methods and tools. The use of such tools is illustrated on the basis of three examples, which summarize some of our recent experiences in the area. The paper ends with a discussion on future perspectives with respect to the use of PSE methods and tools in miniaturized bioprocess systems and for extrapolation of results across reactor scales (scaling up). Bioprocess development drivers – biocatalysis