Effect of temperature and pH on immobilized Zymomonas mobilis for continuous production of ethanol

The effects of temperature and inlet pH of the medium on the ethanol productivity and activity of the immobilized Z. mobilis cells during continuous fermentation of glucose have been studied at various temperatures and pH. On changing the temperature from one steady state level to a new one, 6-8 h were required in order to fully experience the effect of a change in temperature; whereas 8-20 h were required on changing the pH. The optimum temperature of 37 degrees C and a broad pH range of 4.4-6.0 were observed for maximum ethanol productivity and ethanol yield.