Evaluation of batch and semi-batch reactor operation for enzymatic reactions with inhibitory kinetics

Two enzymatic reaction sequences in which one of the intermediate products is the desired one were examined under conditions of batch and semi-batch reactor operation. Semi-batch operation involves a non-instantaneous filling phase during which reaction also occurs. The kinetics were assumed to involve substrate inhibition. The effect of various operating parameters -feeding rate, reactant concentration in the feed-stream, and minimum to maximum volume of reactor contents- on the performance of semi-batch operation was examined. It was found that operating parameters can be optimally selected in order to maximize the yield of the desired product. Semi-batch operation under optimal conditions was found to be superior to batch operation on the basis of desired product yield. Implications of the results for waste minimization in pharmaceutical and specialty chemicals production are discussed.