Key features:
Fermentation stage- optimized growth conditions assured through mixing and oxygen supply. At the end of this stage, viable E. coli cells expressing the enzymes of interest will be present in a broth.
Tubular Bioreactor modules- see cross section of a single TBR system. Continuous flow system with flow rates and residence times based on mass transfer kinetics, specific to E. Coli.
Module 1 designed to capture the bulk of the azodyes, module 2 is a polishing step
Both anaerobic and aerobic reactions take place at the same time in both the modules, design based on gas supply (nitrogen vs. oxygen).
Cleaning operation using biodegradable chemical at high flow rate (from holding tank 2)
Continuous recycle system for maximal active and diffusive uptake.
Filter modules- exploring the use of disposable low cost agricultural waste for filtration.
Further processing- based on the commercial value of the breakdown products, investments could be made into higher-tier technology such as chromatography columns to separate the breakdown products individually.











