Bioprocessing Flashcards
Define biotechnology
The use of living things or their components to manufacture useful products or to carry out useful reactions
What type of respiration is considered the basis of much of the biotechnology industry?
Fermentation
What is a bioreactor?
The vessel in which biological reactions take place during bioprocessing
During bioprocessing what is placed in a bioreactor?
The microorganism and the substrate on which they will act
What is done to the contents of the bioreactor to ensure the microorganisms come into contact with the substrate?
The contents are mixed
Why is the contents of a bioreactor mixed during bioprocessing?
To ensure the microorganism comes into contact with the substrate
What is produced as a result of mixing the contents of the bioreactor or by the reaction itself?
Foam
What is used to help reduce the amount of foam produced by the mixing of the contents of the bioreactor as well as the reaction itself?
A foam breaker
What is a culture medium?
A liquid including a suitable substrate in which the microorganisms grow
Why is air pumped into a bioreactor?
As it is important for there to be as much oxygen dissolved in the culture medium as possible
How is air pumped into a bioreactor?
Air passes through a device called a sparger which forms small air bubbles which dissolve rapidly into the culture medium
What factors does the quality and yield of the products of bioprocessing depend on?
5 factors
Using the correct microorganism and substrate Materials and design of the bioreactor Elimination of microorganisms Correct rate of mixing Control of environmental factors
