This study is to develop integrated process of fermentation/bioreaction in two ways:
1).coupling the fermentation with a novel membrane separation module, in which novel dynamic back-washing technique will be developed to ensure a fast filtration process under mild pumping condition. The membrane pores are constantly cleansed and the formation of cake layer is minimized.
2).The fermentation is coupled with an in-situ expanded bed adsorption module. This allows the fermentation broth to enter the adsorption column without pre-removal of the micro-organism and other solid matters. As a result, the inhibiting substances could be adsorbed in situ, while the column could be free from plugging by the solid due to its expanded mode. Research is needed on (1)the synthesis of anti-fouling membranes,(2) the synthesis of adsorption media suitable for expanded bed adsorption. Mathematical model and process simulation will be developed and used for optimization of the in-situ back-washing membrane and the expanded bed adsorption.

The aim of the project is to develop comprehensive strategies and integrated processes to minimize or eliminate feed-back inhibition in fermentation or bioreaction. The new fermentation processes will be applied on real fermentation processes of organic acids. The target products are organic acids, including lactic acid, succinic acid and propionic acid. About 50% increase in productivity is expected through innovation of the new process. We will also scale-up this new technology and transfer it to industrial practise.