OPTIMAL-DESIGN OF AN ENZYMATIC REACTOR FOR FLOW-INJECTION ANALYSIS

A simulation procedure for the optimization of enzymatic reactors used in sandwich flow injection systems is evaluated. The system is modele d as a plug-flow reactor with axial dispersion. To calibrate it, dispe rsion coefficients can be evaluated using residence time distribution techniques; meanwhile, enzymatic kinetics must be determined for the s ystem considered, according to the values of the substrate conversion attained. The model has been linked to an optimization routine based o n the Powell algorithm. The proposed approach has been evaluated in a system performing simultaneous determinations of glucose and glycerol, considered the common carbon sources in a fermentation process.