Model-based analysis and optimization of an ISPR approach using reactive extraction for pilot scale L-Phenylalanine production

Based on experimental data from fermentation runs, as well as from L-phenylalanine (l-Phe) separation studies, a simple model is presented that describes the total ISPR approach for on-line L-Phe separation. While fermentation process modeling via a macrokinetic model revealed an L-Phe inhibition constant of 20 +/- 1.35 g/L using recombinant E. coli cells, the reactive-extraction process modeling identified the L-Phe cation diffusion in the aqueous donor film and the transport of the lowly soluble carrier/L-Phe complex in the aqueous acceptor film as the most dominant transfer steps. The corresponding mass transfer coefficients were estimated as k(PheD) = 128 x 10(-7) cm/s (extraction) and k(CPheA) = 178 x 10(-5) cm/s (back-extraction). Simulation studies were performed for the total ISPR approach, which gave hints for strategies of further process optimization

Metabolic and Bioprocess Engineering - a Fruitful Symbiosis

This report has been written as a German 'Habilitationsschrift' summarizing some of the research results which were acquired in the working group 'Fermentation technology' at the Institute of Biotechnology, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH. After finishing the Ph.D. thesis (1997) the author became the assistant group leader and subsequently gained official full-group leadership at the beginning of 2000. This 'Habilitationsschrift' only considers results mainly dating from 2000 until January 2004. The author has been responsible for the co-supervision of the Ph.D. and master students which considers the primary topic identification, preparation and funding, the scientific instruction and superivision of the students and the common publication / patenting of the obtained results. Each chapter contains a detailed description about the origin ofthe presented results