Bioanalytics: detailed insight into bioprocesses

The principles of bioanalytical systems for an on-line bioprocess monitorin g are described within this paper. These sensor systems can be interfaced t o the bioprocess in different ways according to the needs of the single bio process. Modular systems are necessary, which can fit exactly to the needs of the single process. Invasive as well as non-invasive bioanalytical tools are described and discussed in detail. Immunosensors give the possibility to monitor high molecular weight components within short time intervals. No n-invasive optical sensors allow the direct monitoring of various analytes such as oxygen pH for the complex fluorescence behavior of the bioprocess m edium. These so-called fluorescence sensors offer the possibility to monito r intra- as well as extracellular components without interfering with the b ioprocess. An industrial example for the application of bioanalytical tools for a process optimization are presented in this application. Here a biose nsor system is used to optimize the downstreaming of molasses on a technica l scale. The economic ms well ecological advantages are discussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.