Oxygen transfer rate during the production of alginate by Azotobacter vinelandii under oxygen-limited and non oxygen-limited conditions
2011

Oxygen Transfer Rate and Alginate Production by Azotobacter vinelandii

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Lozano Esteban, Galindo Enrique, Peña Carlos F

Primary Institution: Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Hypothesis

The study investigates the independent influence of oxygen transfer rate (OTR) and dissolved oxygen tension (DOT) on alginate production and its molecular mass.

Conclusion

The study found that alginate production and its molecular mass are closely linked to the maximum oxygen transfer rate, regardless of the dissolved oxygen tension.

Supporting Evidence

  • An increase in agitation rate significantly increased the maximum oxygen transfer rate.
  • Under non-oxygen limited conditions, the maximum alginate concentration reached was 3.1 g L-1.
  • The mean molecular mass of alginate was higher under lower oxygen transfer rates.

Takeaway

This study shows that how much oxygen is transferred in the water affects how much alginate a bacteria can make and how big the alginate molecules are.

Methodology

The study used a bioreactor to control oxygen levels and agitation rates while measuring alginate production and molecular mass.

Limitations

The study may not account for all variables affecting alginate production, such as nutrient limitations.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1475-2859-10-13

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