Performance evaluation of ultrasonic transducer in a mist bioreactor by different nutrient media.

ABSTRACT

The mist bioreactor has been proved to have a higher performance relative to the liquid phase reactor. The water and conventional media (MS, ½MS, and B5) were tested in a mist bioreactor to evaluate the performance of the misting system. The physicochemical properties of liquids were measured at 0 (Fresh state) and when treated by ultrasonic system for 1 and 2 h. At a given airflow rate, the misting rate for different heights of various media was determined. The results demonstrated that the electrical conductivity of all media increased with the duration of sonication. The ultrasonic effect caused an increase in surface tension of MS and ½MS, while the pH of MS and ½MS reduced with ultrasonic treatment. The inverse trends were observed for water and B5 for these properties. The misting rate increased by increasing liquid height to a maximum value, then decreased to a minimum value at the highest height. For all liquids studied in this experiment, this maximum value of misting performed at height ranged between 3 and 4 cm. The maximum and minimum values of the ultrasonic misting rate belonged to MS ([Formula see text]) at height 3 cm and B5 ([Formula see text]) at height 1 cm, respectively.