Initial-rate based method for estimating the maximum heterotrophic growth rate parameter (μHmax)

► The existing method for measuring μHmax can yield unrepresentative kinetic constants. ► A new method (seed increments) is proposed for measuring the parameter μHmax. ► The principle is based on highly linear relationship between the OUR (mg O2/d) and the seed volumes. ► No significant difference was detected between the estimates, by the classical and new methods. ► The approach is potentially adaptable for measuring other kinetic parameters of the ASM models.