Reviews and compares the major types of bioreactors, defines their pros and cons, and identifies research needs and figures of merit that have yet to be addressed

• Describes common modes of operation in bioreactors
• Covers the three common bioreactor types, including stirred-tank bioreactors, bubble column bioreactors, and airlift bioreactors
• Details less common bioreactors types, including fixed bed bioreactors and novel bioreactor designs
• Discusses advantages and disadvantages of each bioreactor and provides a procedure for optimal bioreactor selection based on current process needs
• Reviews the problems of bioreactor selection globally while considering all bioreactor options rather than concentrating on one specific bioreactor type

Enes Kadic completed his master’s degree in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Iowa State University. His work involved extensive reviews of various bioreactors, which became the framework for this book.

Theodore J. Heindel is currently the Bergles Professor of Thermal Science in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Iowa State University; he also holds a courtesy professor appointment in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering. He directs the Experimental Multiphase Flow Laboratory at ISU. Dr. Heindel’s research program has been funded by over 40 projects supported through the NSF, USDA, DOE, and industrial partners. He has published over 70 peer-reviewed papers and over 175 conference papers, abstracts, and technical reports.