Design and Development of an Automated Multipurpose Bioreactor

Abstract

Bioreactors are essential tools in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and environmental engineering. They play a crucial role in cultivating microorganisms and cells for various purposes, such as producing valuable products and exploring biological processes. However, their high cost makes them inaccessible to many researchers and small-scale industries. This study aimed to create a cost-effective bioreactor that matches the performance of commercially available bioreactors, reducing the financial burden and ensuring comparable efficacy. A 3-liter bioreactor was developed using Arduino Mega 256 and Arduino Nano, along with advanced features like pH control, temperature control, aeration, and agitation, all regulated by a PID controller. The bioreactor was tested under specific pH and temperature conditions, yielding impressive biomass production rates. In just 9-12 hours, it yielded a range of 0.37-2. 2 g of biomass. The fed-batch fermenter performed even better with a remarkable 6. 27g of biomass produced in just 12 hours. Not far behind, the batch fermenter resulted in a respectable 4.4 g of biomass within an 11-hour timeframe for saccharomyces cerevisiae’s growth and reproduction process. The batch fermenter and fed-batch fermenter demonstrated impressive biomass production rates, highlighting the efficiency and productivity achieved with careful control of pH and temperature parameters in fermentation methods. In conclusion, using a fed-batch bioreactor solely for maximizing biomass production is the most favorable approach. This specifically designed bioreactor for mass production of organisms offer a more affordable solution without compromising on efficacy, making it perfect for researchers or small-scale industries seeking high-quality yet cost-effective equipment.