Kinetic Models of Heterogeneous Bioprocesses

The particular model presented, however, must be considered as a preliminary proposal because many of the kinetic assumptions do not rest on solid biochemical facts about the internal regulation of the cell. Furthermore, there are difficulties in identifying the compositional nature of the K and G compartments in terms of structural components of the cell. It is clear that a more thorough study of known regulation phenomena and an empirical study of transient situations, for example in continuous culture, is needed, especially in the CSTR. 

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Recently, the application of fluidized beds to bioprocessing stimulated the modeling of FBBRs. In this complex case, however, models of the hydraulics must be combined with a model of biofilm kinetics, including mass transport-affected substrate conversion. This truly heterogeneous case of reactor operation will be presented here. 

Pseudokinetic phenomena become evident only when process kinetic analysis is carried out with mathematical models. Most bioprocesses are basically heterogeneous systems. Generally, pseudohomogeneous rates measured in L phase analyses are used, because they are thought to reflect directly the intrinsic reaction rate of metabolism in the solid phase (biomass). Even under steady-state conditions, however, this assumption is not necessarily valid. 

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