BTF2042 Industrial Microbiology - Solid State Fermentation

Questions and Answers

What are the two components that constitute the process of fluidization in packed bed bioreactors?

The two components are the solid particles that are fluidized and the fluidizing medium, which is either a liquid or gas.

Describe the role of the nutrient broth in a packed bed bioreactor.

The nutrient broth flows continuously over the immobilized biocatalyst, providing the necessary nutrients for biochemical reactions.

What is the purpose of downstream processing in bioprocessing?

Downstream processing is aimed at isolating and purifying the biotechnological product to meet required purity and quality standards.

List three stages involved in downstream processing and briefly describe one.

Three stages are Harvest, Concentration, and Purification. During the Harvest stage, solid-liquid separation occurs using methods like centrifugation or filtration. Signup and view all the answers

What is one method used for cell disruption in downstream processing?

One method used for cell disruption is ultrasonication, which uses high-frequency sound waves to break cell walls. Signup and view all the answers

What are the environmental benefits of solid state fermentation?

It produces minimal waste and liquid effluent, making it less damaging to the environment. Signup and view all the answers

How does solid state fermentation utilize agro-industrial residues?

It provides an alternative avenue and value-addition for under-utilized agro-industrial residues as substrates. Signup and view all the answers

What advantages does solid state fermentation offer in terms of technology and investment?

SSF requires low technology, low energy expenditure, and less capital investment. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the fluidization process in fluidized bed bioreactors.

Fluidization occurs when small solid particles are suspended in an upward flowing stream of fluid, allowing for excellent mixing. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of expanding the top position in the design of fluidized bed bioreactors?

It reduces the velocity of the fluid, ensuring that solids are retained in the reactor while the liquid flows out. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Solid State Fermentation (SSF) Advantages

Produces minimal waste and liquid effluents, reducing environmental impact.
Utilizes simple natural solids as media, promoting sustainability.
Requires low technology and energy, resulting in lower capital investment.
No sterilization needed, reducing microbial contamination risks.
Simplified downstream processing enhances efficiency.
Leverages agro-industrial residues as substrates, adding value to underutilized materials.
High product yield is achievable with SSF methodologies.
Bioreactor designs and aeration methods are straightforward and manageable.
Diverse domestic, industrial, and agricultural wastes can be utilized effectively in SSF.

Fluidized Bed Bioreactors

Structure allows for the expansion of the top to decrease fluid velocity.
Solids are retained while liquid is permitted to flow out, maintaining separation.
Fluidization happens when small solid particles are suspended in an upward fluid stream.
Fluid velocity is calibrated to suspend particles without expelling them from the reactor.
High mixing efficiency is achieved as solid particles rapidly swirl in the fluidized state.
The solid typically fluidized is either a liquid or gas medium.

Packed Bed Bioreactors

Comprises a column packed with solid particles containing biocatalysts.
Solids may be porous or non-porous gels, facilitating the reaction.
Used solids can be compressible or rigid, influencing bioreactor performance.
Nutrient broth circulates continuously over immobilized biocatalysts to support growth and activity.

Downstream Processing (DSP)

Refers to the stage of bioprocessing where cell mass is processed for purity and quality.
DSP involves isolating and purifying biotechnological products for intended applications.
Different stages of downstream processing include:
- Harvest: Solid-liquid separation through centrifugation or filtration.
- Concentration: Techniques such as ultrafiltration, diafiltration, and precipitation.
- Purification: Achieved via chromatography to enhance product purity.
- Formulation: Includes crystallization and freeze drying for product stability.
- Filling: Packaged products are prepared for market distribution.

Description

Explore the principles of Solid State Fermentation (SSF) in Industrial Microbiology. This quiz covers the advantages of SSF, including environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness. Test your knowledge on how SSF minimizes waste and microbial contamination.