Modelling and Simulation of a Feed Batch Reactor for Dextran Enzymatic Synthesis with Controlled Molecular Weight

摘要

Dextran is a high added value polysaccharide obtained from sucrose. Its synthesis is promoted by dextransucrase, an extra cellular enzyme from Leuconostoc mesenteroides NRRL B 512 F and its application depends on its molecular weight. In this work the modelling and the simulation a feed batch reactor for dextran enzymatic synthesis with controlled molecular weight is presented. The method of moments is used in order to estimate the molecular weight of dextran as a function of the enzyme, sucrose and maltose concentrations in the reactor, using the insertion mechanism for dextran synthesis. Several simulations were done to study the behaviour of the process and the influence of the process variables. Maltose is used in order to control the molecular weight. The results obtained are compared to those obtained using a batch reactor.