A Laboratory Experiment for Teaching Bioprocess Control Part 2: Bioprocess Design, Modelling, Simulation, and Fermentation Execution

This second paper on the development of a biotech teaching experiment focuses on the bioprocess itself: After identification of requirements of a bioprocess to be suited for a laboratory experiment for students, the mathematical models of the chosen process are presented in detail for batch, fed-batch, and continuous mode of operation. Linearization of the nonlinear dynamics reveals the system neither to be completely controllable nor to be completely observable – with biological reasons and solutions to this problem given. For fed-batch operation, the capabilities of the Simulink simulation environment to simulate different feeding strategies are shortly depicted. With specially tailored learning materials (“from students for students”), mastering the differences between “nice” simulation data and real-world sensor signals is addressed. Some comments on the development of an adapted strain of the microorganisms to the medium as the basis for a successful fermentation execution conclude this paper.