| Abstract: | A mechanistic model is presented for the growth kinetics of a yeast grown by submerged aerobic fermentation using a liquid hydrocarbon as sole carbon source. The model is based on the assumption that cell growth is governed by the extent of probable cell attachment at the hydrocarbon oil-droplet surfaces in a four-phase dispersion. An analytical expression has been developed for the model. It is shown that for the case of relatively small oil droplets, the model predicts the present and previous experimental data for growth of yeasts (Candida species) in n-alkane systems. The model is further examined for maximal growth in terms of substrate dilution rate and agitation power consumption for a continuous fermentation process. |
