Controlled Semi-Batch Process to Enhance Glucose Concentration in an Enzymatic Hydrolysis Stirred Tank Reactor

Abstract

In this work, it is explored a controlled semi-batch operation for a stirred tank reactor in which an enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose is carried out to enhance the concentration of reducing sugar. A high concentration of reducing sugar impacts fermentation processes in a biorefinery. Cellulose and enzyme feedings are driven by controllers to maintain the highest cellulose concentration allowed by a physical constraint in the process; in consequence, more cellulose is fed than in a typical batch operation and a greater glucose concentration is obtained. The construction of controllers is systematic, and performance is illustrated by simulation.