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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2021 - 2022

Module Title Bioprocessing Laboratory 1
Module Code BE560
School School of Biotechnology

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorDr Jenny LawlerOffice NumberX221
NFQ level 9 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

The aim of this module is to provide students with practical experience of up to date bioprocessing techniques and equipment, and further their understanding of the principles of operation of bioreactors and auxiliary on-line measuring equipment, including data acquisition systems. Students will achieve this by performing laboratory experiments incorporating elements of bioreactor operation and bioreaction monitoring techniques. Students will gain experience of various USP and DSP unit operations, and will learn how to interpret the data that they collect and complete a written report.

Learning Outcomes

1. Set up a laboratory scale bioreactor and explain the functioning of all components
2. Carry out a complete sterilization of the bioreactor and auxiliary equipment
3. Explain the functioning of all electrodes/sensors used in the bioreactors and how to calibrate and maintain them
4. Inoculate bioreactor and monitor bioreactor conditions
5. Determine the volumetric oxygen mass transfer coefficient (kLa) for a bioreactor
6. Measure the heat transfer coefficient for heating and cooling in a bioreactor
7. Take samples over the course of the fermentation and measure the biomass concentration
8. Operate an ultrafiltration module and measure NWP
9. Pack a chromatography column and measure efficiency
10. Produce a report in a format suitable for publication in a scientific journal



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Laboratory28No Description
Independent Study97No Description
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Dismantling of bioreactor, identification of each component and function

Cleaning and re-assembly of bioreactor, preparation for sterilization

Preparation of cell culture medium

Preparation of pH, pO2 electrodes, calibration and insertion to bioreactor

Sterilization of bioreactor

Inoculation of bioreactor

Cell Culture

Sampling at regular intervals for determination of cell mass, number and viability; also analyte concentration

On-line monitoring of culture and data collection

Determination of volumetric mass transfer coefficient

Determination of heat transfer coefficient

Use of a Kaye Validator for thermal mapping

Mixing comparison - Disposable -v- SS Bioreactors

Ultrafiltration

Chromatography

Data Analysis and Report Preparation

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

    Other Resources

    5941, Laboratory Manual, 0, BE560 Bioprocessing Laboratory Manual,
    Programme or List of Programmes
    GCBEGraduate Cert in Bioprocess Engineering
    GDBEGraduate Dip in Bioprocess Engineering
    MSBEMSc in Bioprocess Engineering
    SMPSCSingle Module Prof. Science and Health
    Archives: