F. Tachea1, H.Chen2, P. Coffman1, A.Narani1, S.Hubbard1, C.Chen1, R.Pandya2, P.Gandhi2, T.Pray1, and D.Tanjore1
In collaboration with industry, academia, and National Labs, the Advanced Biofuels and Bioproducts Process Demonstration Unit (ABPDU) performs process development and scale-up of several fermentation –based technologies. As a part of the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, the ABPDU has been a resource to both domestic and international companies since 2011. One such project has focused on process optimization and scale-up of high cell-density fermentation using a Pichiatype yeast to produce proteins applicable in the beverage industry. The study presents an overview on lessons learned in process development, particularly around aspects of gas-liquid mass transfer efficiency. Furthermore, statistical Design of Experiments was applied for 2 L bioreactor tests to determine optimal operating variables. At the 300 L scale, these optimal operating variables were applied and the oxygen transfer and uptake rates were measured and compared with calculated values. The knowledge gained from this thorough study was an essential step for demonstrating the scalability of the process. Also, producing enough quantities of recovered and concentrated protein allowed for product testing, thereby assessing commercial viability.
1Advanced Biofuels Process Demonstration Unit, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Emeryville, CA;
2 Muufri, Inc., Menlo Park, California