Chapter 4

Airlift Bioreactor

Schematic Diagram

Introduction
Evolved from bubble column concept
Recirculation of liquid through a downcomer
connecting the top and bottom of the main
bubbling section
Efficient mixing by high circulation flow rate
No mechanical agitators no large shear
forces
Can satisfy a high oxygen demand
Eg. production of secondary metabolites by
plant cells

The Construction
Two types: ALR with internal loop and ALR with
external loop
Continuous injection of air at the bottom of
the riser creates a density difference with the
downcomer as the air escapes at the top of
the reactor.
Because of the density difference, a liquid flow
from the bottom to the top exists in the riser
and from the top to the bottom in the
downcomer, resulting in circulation of
continuous liq phase.

Advantages of ALR
The absence of mechanically moving parts
A low shear rate
A low defect rate
Adequate gas-phase disengagement at the
top
Unique combination of controlled flow and
good mixing properties
Well-defined residence time
Easily operated under sterile conditions

Types of ALR
Internal loop ALR (AILR)
External loop ALR (AELR)

Advantages of AELR compared

to AILR
A well-defined residence time in the
individual sections of AELR
An adjustable gas-phase disengagement at
the top
Accessability for measurement and control
in both riser and downcomer
Excellent heat exchange and temp control
Optimal hydraulic diameter for both riser
and downcomer and therefore low friction
rate