Kinetic characterization in dynamically operated CST-reactors: ferrous iron oxidation by Leptospirillum ferrooxidans

摘要

The Fe~(Ⅱ) oxidation kinetics by L. ferrooxidans have been investigated in dynamic Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor (CSTR) experiments that allow for rapid and accurate determination of kinetic parameter values. By on-line measurement of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the off-gas of the reactor, and the Fe~(Ⅱ):Fe~(Ⅲ) concentration ratio in the medium, mass balances for electron donor, acceptor and biomass can be established. As opposed to steady state measurements, we conducted experiments in CSTR's that are operated at a variable dilution rate. This dynamic approach allows for kinetic parameter determination within a few day period. It furthermore enables quantitative measurement and subsequent modeling of the response of the system on short-term perturbations.