Syngas fermentation to biofuel: Evaluation of carbon monoxide mass transfer and analytical modeling using a composite hollow fiber (CHF) membrane bioreactor

In this study, the volumetric mass transfer coefficients (Ka) for CO were examined in a composite hollow fiber (CHF) membrane bioreactor. The mass transfer experiments were conducted at various inlet gas pressures (from 5 to 30 psig (34.5–206.8 kPag)) and recirculation flow rates (300, 600, 900, 1200 and 1500 mL/min) through CHF module. The highest Ka value of 946.6 1/h was observed at a recirculation rate of 1500 mL/min and at an inlet gas pressure of 30 psig(206.8 kPag). The findings of this study confirm that the use of CHF membranes is effective and improves the efficiency CO mass transfer into the aqueous phase.

► Composite hollow fiber membrane bioreactor was used to model CO mass transfer.
► Maximum volumetric mass transfer coefficient of 946.6 1/h was obtained for CO.
► Model equation Sh=0.049P-0.202Re0.241P0.478Sc0.33 can be used in scaling up.
► Composite hollow fiber membranes are effective and efficient in CO mass transfer.