Course syllabus for Bioreaction engineering

After completing the course, the students should be able to

• calculate stoichiometry, yields, turnover, and reaction kinetics in chemical and biotechnological reactors
• estimate the effects of different factors on mass and heat transfer, and explain the theoretical basis for these effects
• optimise reactor systems in terms of reactor dimensions, mode of operation, temperature, flow rates, and recirculation
• simulate cell growth, substrate consumption and product formation in batch, fed-batch and continuous reactors, using mathematical modelling on a microscopic (reactions and cell metabolism) as well as a macroscopic (bioreactor) level
• reflect on how calculations based on dynamic mass and energy balances and optimisation of reactors and reactor systems influcence the use of resources like water, raw materials and energy
• plan and perform experiments in bioreactors using good laboratory practice. Critically analyse experimental results and conclusions (also from an ethical perspective)

• chemical and biotechnological reactors
• dynamic mass and energy balances in ideal tank (CSTR) and plug flow reactors
• microbial cultivation techniques
• mathematical modelling (micro- and macroscopic)
• kinetics of growth and product formation
• optimisation
• mass transfer
• biotechnical monitoring techniques
• industrial processes
• non-ideal reactors
• residence time distributions

The final grade is based on the written final exam, which contains calculations (ca. 90%) and descriptive (ca. 10%) questions.

Students must also pass the compulsory assignments, simulations and laboratory work. The lab is examined during compulsory lab seminars where students calculate e.g. reaction rates and yields from the experimental results. Detailed instructions will be given during the course.