On mutating autocatalytic reactions in a CSTR. I: multiplicity of steady states

A conceptual model describing a mutating autocatalytic reaction in a contin uous stirred tank reactor is analyzed. The mutant is assumed to compete wit h the original autocatalyst. The phenomenon of multiplicity of steady stare s is determined through the application of singularity theory. A mutant-con taining feed and a mutant-free feed cases were considered. Eleven regions f or the first case and at least 25 regions for the second case of qualitativ ely different bifurcation behavior were determined using only conditions fo r isola and hystersis variety. More subregions were identified when applyin g the double limit variety conditions. The maximum number of steady states which was found for the first case was five whereas the second case showed regions of seven steady states. The yield distribution of the main product and the mutant was briefly discussed for some cases. (C) 2000 Elsevier Scie nce Ltd. All rights reserved.