Compartmented Reactor Research Articles

A Compartmented Microfluidic Reactor for Protein Modification Via Solid-phase Reactions — Semi-automated Examination of Two PEGylation Routes

Microfluidics has emerged as a relatively new scientific field enabling fast reaction times and low demands for reactants. Pursuing these advantages, a compartmented, microfluidic reactor was developed in our group which is suitable for the semi-automated processing of complex reaction cascades including solid phases. As one of the first application examples, we analyzed the influence of different reaction paths on the modification of a model protein in a solid-phase reaction. Extensive characterization experiments were performed: Amongst others, an organic phase was identified which is immiscible with water and compatible with the designated PEGylation reactions. Such organic solvents function as separation plugs for different water based reaction plugs within the microfluidic system. Mixing within the microfluidic system was investigated, in order to ensure an efficient solid-phase reaction. Subsequently, solid-phase PEGylation of the target protein was performed within the microfluidic system via two different reaction cascades. The longest reaction cascades comprised all reactions from particle activation, via protein immobilization and PEGylation to elution and consisted of seven steps. PEGylation in the reactor took place with comparable yields and results as in the control reaction outside the reactor. Due to the modularity, the presented reactor proves to be a versatile instrument for semi-automated reactions and parameter screening, being compatible with biological systems. It combines the advantages of closed channel systems like lab on a chip microfluidics with the flexibility and preparative scale sample volume of larger liquid handling stations.

Automated, quantitative DNA purification and spectrometric analysis from whole blood samples in a compartmented reactor device

Small-scale automated nucleic acid purification and quantification in a compartmented, closed, capillary-based system using magnetic field technology.

Automated Solid-Phase Protein Modification with Integrated Enzymatic Digest for Reaction Validation: Application of a Compartmented Microfluidic Reactor for Rapid Optimization and Analysis of Protein Biotinylation.

Protein modification by covalent coupling of small ligands or markers is an important prerequisite for the use of proteins in many applications. Well-known examples are the use of proteins with fluorescent markers in many in vivo experiments or the binding of biotinylated antibodies via biotin–streptavidin coupling in the frame of numerous bioassays. Multiple protocols were established for the coupling of the respective molecules, e.g., via the C and N-terminus, or via cysteines and lysines exposed at the protein surface. Still, in most cases the conditions of these standard protocols are only an initial guess. Optimization of the coupling parameters like reagent concentrations, pH, or temperature may strongly increase coupling yield and the biological activity of the modified protein. In order to facilitate the process of optimizing coupling conditions, a method was developed which uses a compartmented microfluidic reactor for the rapid screening of different coupling conditions. In addition, the system allows for the integration of an enzymatic digest of the modified protein directly after modification. In combination with a subsequent MALDI-TOF analysis of the resulting fragments, this gives a fast and detailed picture not only of the number and extent of the generated modifications but also of their position within the protein sequence. The described process was demonstrated for biotinylation of green fluorescent protein. Different biotin-excesses and different pH-values were tested in order to elucidate the influence on the modification extent and pattern. In addition, the results of solid-phase based modifications within the microfluidic reactor were compared to modification patterns resulting from coupling trials with unbound protein. As expected, modification patterns of immobilized proteins showed clear differences to the ones of dissolved proteins.

An automated and compartmented fluidic reactor device for multi-step sample-to-answer processes using magnetic particles

A benchtop device that combines segmented flow with magnetic particle separation and active resuspension capabilities for biotechnological applications, e.g. biomolecule purification.

Screening of protein modification processes in a compartmented microfluidic reactor

Screening of protein modification processes in a compartmented microfluidic reactor

Plug flow versus stirred tank reactor flow characteristics in two‐compartment scale‐down bioreactor: Setup‐specific influence on the metabolic phenotype and bioprocess performance of Corynebacterium glutamicum

In the last two decades, scale‐down studies based on compartmented reactor setups became the standard procedure to mimic inhomogeneous cultivation conditions. In the academic field and with application to industrial‐scale, two basic scale‐down bioreactor configurations both showing a stirred tank reactor (STR) as main compartment predominate this research field. The connection to a plug flow reactor (PFR) generates oscillatory gradients with a distinct residence time of the culture, while the STR provides a broad residence time distribution leading to more heterogeneous oscillations. The influence of these opposed hydrodynamic profiles for their applicability for scale‐down bioreactor setups as well as their specific influence on the metabolic phenotype of l‐lysine producing Corynebacterium glutamicum DM1800 strain was investigated. Batch cultivations under oscillatory oxygen deprivation and substrate excess were carried out in STR–PFR and STR–STR scale‐down devices. In both setups, the induced inhomogeneity resulted in a reduction of growth rate and increased the l‐lactate and l‐glutamate by‐product formation, while biomass and product yields stayed nearly constant. Apart from differing side‐product levels, very similar results were observed when comparing the metabolic phenotype and bioprocess performance of STR–PFR and STR–STR configuration, although opposed back mixing profiles were present.

Infors HT Establishes Forward Base in U.S.

Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology NewsVol. 34, No. 10 Corporate ProfileInfors HT Establishes Forward Base in U.S.Newly Founded Infors USA Preserves Existing Contacts, Promises Closer TiesGail DuttonGail DuttonSearch for more papers by this authorPublished Online:14 May 2014https://doi.org/10.1089/gen.34.10.05AboutSectionsView articleView Full TextPDF/EPUB Permissions & CitationsPermissionsDownload CitationsTrack CitationsAdd to favorites Back To Publication ShareShare onFacebookTwitterLinked InRedditEmail View articleFiguresReferencesRelatedDetailsCited byAn automated and compartmented fluidic reactor device for multi-step sample-to-answer processes using magnetic particles1 January 2017 | Reaction Chemistry & Engineering, Vol. 2, No. 3 Volume 34Issue 10May 2014 Information© 2014 by GEN PublishingTo cite this article:Gail Dutton.Infors HT Establishes Forward Base in U.S..Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News.May 2014.10-10.http://doi.org/10.1089/gen.34.10.05Published in Volume: 34 Issue 10: May 14, 2014PDF download

Simultaneous Nitrification and Denitrification in Biofilm-Electrode Reactor

To study the nitrification and denitrification in compartmented biofilm-electrode reactor (C-BER) under limited oxygen, influence of mild electrolysis on nitrogen removal was investigated under low C/N (mole ratios) with dissolved oxygen about 1mg/ L. It was found that nitrogen removal was mainly through simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (SND). C/N ratio was 1, average total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiencies were 33% and 45% for electric current of 5 and 15mA. C/N was 0.5, electric current was 25mA and effluent was recirculated, TN removal efficiency increased to 60%, within which autotrophic denitrification accounted for about 51%. There was about 50% NH3-N reduced under 15mA when C/N ratio was 1, this increased to 70% for 25mA when C/N ratio was 0.5. Nevertheless, TN reduced between anode and cathodes accounted for 64% in all. The experimental results show that both higher electric current and effluent recirculation are good for SND process under oxygen-limited condition, nitrogen removal can be activated by mild electrolysis.

Tratamento anaeróbio de resíduos orgânicos com baixa concentração de sólidos

Este trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de avaliar o desempenho de reator anaeróbio compartimentado no tratamento de resíduos sólidos orgânicos com baixa concentração de sólidos. O reator anaeróbio compartimentado possuía capacidade unitária de 2.200 litros, era dividido em seis câmaras de iguais dimensões e foi operado com tempo de retenção de sólidos de 90 dias. Os resíduos sólidos orgânicos utilizados para alimentação do reator eram constituídos de resíduos sólidos vegetais e de lodo de esgoto sanitário na proporção de 80% e 20%, respectivamente. A mistura desses dois tipos de resíduos originava o substrato, o qual, após a correção da umidade para 95% (percentagem em massa), era alimentado ao reator. A eficiência de redução de material carbonáceo situou-se em torno de 80%, com carga orgânica aplicada de 9,3 kg R SO m-3 dia-1. A taxa de produção de biogás obtida foi de 5,6 L kg-1substrato (base úmida), com percentagem em volume de 50% de gás metano.

Avaliação do desempenho de dois sistemas modulares no tratamento anaeróbio de esgotos em comunidades rurais

Este trabalho apresenta uma alternativa de baixo custo e fácil instalação para o tratamento de esgotos de pequenas comunidades. O experimento foi desenvolvido no Campo Experimental da Faculdade de Engenharia Agrícola (FEAGRI/UNICAMP). O volume total de esgoto gerado na FEAGRI é de cerca de 20 m³ dia-1, sendo metade desse tratado pelos sistemas modulares. O sistema da linha (A) é constituído por um reator UASB (Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket), seguido de dois filtros anaeróbios e o outro sistema, linha (B), é constituído por um reator tipo RAC (Reator Anaeróbio Compartimentado), seguido de dois filtros anaeróbios (FA). Os sistemas foram operados de dezembro de 2002 a fevereiro de 2004, totalizando 30 coletas de amostras. Observou-se que, de maneira geral, o desempenho dos sistemas foram similares e com resultados satisfatórios. As eficiências médias de remoção de Sólidos Sedimentáveis, Sólidos Suspensos Totais e DQO, observadas no sistema modular da Linha (A), foram, respectivamente, 99,58%; 94,33% e 67,30%. O sistema modular da Linha (B) apresentou remoção de 99,49%; 93,34% e 70,45% para os mesmos parâmetros. Os sistemas modulares mostraram-se adequados e viáveis para promover o tratamento sanitário do esgoto produzido em pequenas comunidades.

Fluidization Quality Study in a Compartmented Fluidized Bed Gasifier (CFBG)

Compartmented fluidized bed gasifier (CFBG), consisting of two compartments, which are the combustor and gasifier, uses the air blown instead of pure oxygen for syngas production, eliminating the need for the air separation unit and thus reducing the capital cost as distinguished from traditional ones. This paper presents a fluidization quality study on the cold physical model of CFBG for the main bed of the combustor and gasifier without considering the solid circulation inside. Different inert particles (river sand, quartz sand, and alumina) were used to investigate the effects of the distributor free area and the geometry of the compartments (area reduction/expansion) on the fluidization quality in CFBG. The results demonstrate that the combustor compartment can attain good fluidization quality, whereas the gasifier hardly achieves good fluidization because of the occurrence of channeling. The fluidization quality of the gasifier continues to remain poor even after the attempt of changing the distributor design by increasing the distributor free area. Our study shows that the effective diameter, D e , for the compartmented reactor has a pronounced effect on the fluidization quality if the basic criteria, the distributor/operating pressure drop ratio greater than the distributor/critical pressure drop ratio, has been met. On the basis of the values of D e found in our study, the CFBG reactor in our real pilot plant is designed according to the partition ratio of 60:40 (combustor/gasifier), with the total diameter of 0.65 m, so that the minimum effective diameter requirement can be achieved at the gasifier side when compared to the originally proposed ratio of 65:35 (combustor/gasifier) at a total diameter of 0.484 m.

Tratamento anaeróbio de resíduos orgânicos com baixa concentração de sólidos

O processo de digestão anaeróbia de resíduos sólidos orgânicos com baixa concentração de sólidos é realizado com substrato contendo em média cerca de 5% (percentagem em peso) de sólidos totais. Os problemas de ordem técnica associados a este tipo de tratamento, estão relacionados ao estudo das configurações de reatores que possam viabilizar uma boa eficiência de transformação do material carbonáceo em um período relativamente curto de tempo. Portanto, neste trabalho foi estudado o processo de digestão anaeróbia de resíduos sólidos orgânicos (RSO) com baixa concentração de sólidos em um reator anaeróbio compartimentado (RAC). O reator anaeróbio compartimentado tinha capacidade unitária de 2200 litros e foi operado com tempo de retenção de sólidos de 90 dias. A eficiência de transformação média de STV foi de 75% e o biogás produzido continha em média 60% de gás metano.

Aerated denitrification in full-scale activated sludge facilities

The practice of manipulating activated sludge reaction environments to obtain maximum nitrogen removal has been optimized using cyclic activated sludge technology. In its simplest form, the sequences of fill aeration, settle and decant are consecutively and continuously operated in a compartmented reactor in which an initial reaction volume performs the function of a biological selector with biomass from a final reaction volume. The technology incorporates the principles of biological accumulation - regeneration processing in which a variable volume plug-flow reaction environment precedes a variable volume complete-mix reaction environment. Both reactor volumes are typically in continuous fluid communication. This configuration and mode of operation allows removal performance in domestic wastewater treatment applications to meet less than 5 mg/L total nitrogen discharge limits. Low nitrogen concentrations are obtained using modified aeration sequences only in which the bulk phase dissolved oxygen concentration is typically less than 2 mg/L in a ramped profile beginning at zero. By that means a simultaneous or co-current nitrification-denitrification mechanism is obtained. Track run data illustrate the performance obtained in domestic applications.

Aerated denitrification in full-scale activated sludge facilities

The practice of manipulating activated sludge reaction environments to obtain maximum nitrogen removal has been optimized using cyclic activated sludge technology. In its simplest form, the sequences of fill aeration, settle and decant are consecutively and continuously operated in a compartmented reactor in which an initial reaction volume performs the function of a biological selector with biomass from a final reaction volume. The technology incorporates the principles of biological accumulation - regeneration processing in which a variable volume plug-flow reaction environment precedes a variable volume complete-mix reaction environment. Both reactor volumes are typically in continuous fluid communication. This configuration and mode of operation allows removal performance in domestic wastewater treatment applications to meet less than 5 mg/L total nitrogen discharge limits. Low nitrogen concentrations are obtained using modified aeration sequences only in which the bulk phase dissolved oxygen concentration is typically less than 2 mg/L in a ramped profile beginning at zero. By that means a simultaneous or co-current nitrification-denitrification mechanism is obtained. Track run data illustrate the performance obtained in domestic applications.

Aerated denitrification in full-scale activated sludge facilities

The practice of manipulating activated sludge reaction environments to obtain maximum nitrogen removal has been optimized using cyclic activated sludge technology. In its simplest form, the sequences of fill aeration, settle and decant are consecutively and continuously operated in a compartmented reactor in which an initial reaction volume performs the function of a biological selector with biomass from a final reaction volume. The technology incorporates the principles of biological accumulation - regeneration processing in which a variable volume plug-flow reaction environment precedes a variable volume complete-mix reaction environment. Both reactor volumes are typically in continuous fluid communication. This configuration and mode of operation allows removal performance in domestic wastewater treatment applications to meet less than 5 mg/L total nitrogen discharge limits. Low nitrogen concentrations are obtained using modified aeration sequences only in which the bulk phase dissolved oxygen concentration is typically less than 2 mg/L in a ramped profile beginning at zero. By that means a simultaneous or co-current nitrification-denitrification mechanism is obtained. Track run data illustrate the performance obtained in domestic applications.

Influence of Macromixing on Organic Carbon Uptake and Solids Production by Aerobic Suspended Biomass

The influence of macromixing on organic carbon uptake by aerobic suspended biomass has been investigated using two reactors operated in parallel, i.e. a perfectly mixed reactor and a compartmented reactor. Conversion determined on filtrated samples is identical in both of the reactors but with less solids production in the low-dispersed reactor. The reaction rate established on the perfectly mixed reactor shows an apparent first-order with influence of inlet concentration but this relation cannot be used in a mass balance over the compartmented reactor.