Objectives and competences

Provide knowledge on: use of biocatalysts in soluble and immobilized forms in reactors for bioproducts production; configurations of bioreactors, instrumentation and control of bioprocesses.
Deepen and broaden the knowledge of students on the processes using living systems to complete targeted and controlled transformations.

Students should acquire skills to:
Analyze microbial growth and product formation kinetics.
Analyze fermenter systems (batch, fed-batch, continuous).
Evaluate the influence of operating conditions on different enzymatic or fermentation systems.
Work in a team and manage group work.
Report in the format of scientific writing the results of their work.

Teaching Methodologies

Lectures where subjects and concepts are presented. Classes to solve problems to apply the knowledge acquired and practical classes
where students have the opportunity to operate equipment.

Syllabus

Lectures:
Enzymology Module:
Bioprocesses: introduction, definitions and specific characteristics.
Brief reference to enzyme production and purification.
Applications of enzyme catalysis.
Free and Immobilised enzymes kinetics.
Case studies.
Fermentation Module:
Introduction to Industrial Fermentation. Examples of biotechnology products.
Microbial Growth Kinetics
Fermenters Configuration and Fermentation Systems.
Aerated cultures. Oxygen limitation.
Types of fermenters.

Tutorials:
Resolution of exercises of the topics covered in lectures.

Lab classes:
Enzyme kinetics.
Development of a batch culture.
Development of a continuous culture.
Determination of specific rates of consumption and production, yields and productivities.