Medium optimization of simultaneous starch saccharification and ethanol fermentation in biofilm reactors

In this study, industrial wastes of a local potato company is utilized for ethanol production in biofilm reactors by Aspergillus niger and Sacchaorymes cerevisiae. To achieve the high biomass yield in the reactor, biofilm immobilization technique is employed with Plastic Composite Support (PCS) material. The best biomass forming PCS for each of the microorganisms is selected, and used to enhance the ethanol production.  Plackett-Burman statistical design is used to screen the medium ingredients. Malt extract and FeSO₄.7H₂O showed significantly positive effects on the enzyme and ethanol productions. Later on, Response Surface Methodology is used to optimize the concentration levels of waste potato (d.w/L), malt extract and FeSO₄.7H₂O.