Optimizing membrane bioreactor

The behaviour of membrane bioreactors is strongly affected by kinetics and mass transfer limitations (Satterfield and Sherwood, 1963). A detailed understanding of transport phenomena is required to optimize their performance. 

Calabro V, Curcio S, De Paola M G, lorio G (2009b), Optimization of membrane bioreactor performance during enzymatic oxidation of waste bio-polyphenols . 

Shi et designed an MF membrane bioreactor in stirred back flush operation for biotransformation using intact cells. The optimization of the pore size of the membrane and cell loading in the reactor was investigated when producing /-aspartic add from fumarate by Escherichia coli with aspartase. The biotransformation performance using intact cells in the membrane reactor and using immobilized cells in the packed bed reactor was compared. ... 

Bilad MR, Westbroek P, Vankelecom IFJ (2011) Assessment and optimization of electrospun nanofiber-membranes in a membrane bioreactor (MBR). J Membr Sci 380 181-191... 

In addition, the substrate and product should be transported through the cell membrane, either passively or actively, and necessary cofactors should be regenerated. Finally, the specific organism used should function well in an optimized bioreactor system. All of these requirements can be met by using strains that contain the desired enzyme in question. 

Although several hepatocyte-based Ever support systems have been proposed, there is no current consensus on its eventual design configuration. The most devices used currently are based on conventional hollow fiber membranes, and there are many opportunities for bioengineers to design new bioreactors that will optimize device function, particularly with regard to oxygen and nutrient provision. 

To optimize the BOHLM processes and improve separation and transport properties, it is necessary to develop complexation chemistry and new selective carriers, or to improve existing ones. Such improvements and reducing the price of membrane film or hoUow-fiber production wiU definitely speed industrial application of the BOHLM technologies, espe-ciaUy for gas, pharmaceutical and bioreactor apphcations. 

A significant problem that affects membrane technologies is fouling, that has to be prevented in order to optimize bioreactor performance. Process control is also required in order to guarantee optimal operating conditions over time. 

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