Abstract: The invention relates to the production of mannitol by bioconversion with the aid of immobilized micro-organisms as well as to the use of the mannitol and by-products formed in the conversion process. In said process a solution containing a substrate convertible into mannitol is fed into contact with solid carrier particles containing viable mannitol-forming microorganism cells immobilized in and/or on said particles. The solution is reconditioned between successive conversion steps in order to provide conversion of a major portion of said substrate into mannitol.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 9, 2001
Date of Patent:
August 5, 2003
Assignee:
Xyrofin Oy
Inventors:
Heikki Ojamo, Hannu Koivikko, Heikki Heikkilä