Kinetic Analysis of Data from Biological Systems

Process design for biological systems is greatly dependent upon the proper selection of the functional form of the rate of reaction. Other factors, such as the variability of flows, component distribution and gross concentrations in a given waste stream may obviate intensive laboratory investigations for exact kinetic formulations. However, certain procedures can be implemented in the laboratory for the generation of data that can be used as a guideline to insure that the system constructed will do the job required. A simple laboratory procedure for the selection of organisms with good setting characteristics and for the collection of suitable data for kinetic analysis is detailed. Various kinetic formulations are theoretically developed. Data from batch systems for cultures growing on a defined glucose-mineral salts medium, a domestic waste and a combined domestic and industrial waste are presented and reduced for unit rate and Michaelis-Menten rate forms. The results for each are compared and contrasted.