Abstract: This invention relates to metabolically engineered microorganism strains, such as bacterial strains, in which there is an increased utilization of malonyl-CoA for production of a chemical product, which includes 3-hydroxypropionic acid.

Abstract: A method for removing carbon dioxide from methane-containing crude gases, especially biogas, by pressure scrubbing, using a physical solvent, includes circulating the contaminated scrubbing solution after regeneration. A plant suitable for carrying out the method considerably reduces the methane loss which arises through methane slippage and improves the overall energy balance of the method. Laden scrubbing solution obtained from the pressure scrubbing is treated at least in one flash stage before the first stripping stage. In addition, a nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide and methane-containing gas mixture drawn off from the flash stage is cleaned in a scrubbing stage by purified scrubbing solution drawn off from the second stripping stage and supplied in countercurrent, forming a high-purity methane gas.

Abstract: A device and method for automating the handling and testing of microbiological specimens are provided. A portable specimen collection vehicle (SCV) is provided which comprises a protective housing, a specimen chamber for receiving a biospecimen sample, a plurality of culturing chambers each for receiving a portion of the biospecimen sample and each containing a different culture medium, a system of fluid ducts connecting the specimen chamber to each of the culturing chambers, and an actuator that facilitates flow of portions of the biospecimen sample from the specimen chamber through the system of fluid ducts and into each of the culturing chambers, wherein biological organisms in the biospecimen begin to grow in one or more of the culturing chambers and cultured portions of the biospecimen sample can be withdrawn selectively from the apparatus.

Abstract: A three stage, multiple phase anaerobic digestion system and method designed to separate the biological phases, optimize microbial activity in each phase, and significantly increase system reliability and energy production. The system physically separates the biological phases of anaerobic digestion based on particle size, particle density, and solubility of metabolic products. The system allows a complex multi-phased biological system to develop without the need for excessive control or operator intervention.

Abstract: An anaerobic digestion system for digestion of animal or other organic material and production of biogas is shown. The digestion system includes a simplified construction and improved agitation system both partially enabled by a dual container system that makes use of the buoyancy of the digestion container for support.

Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods are provided for growing and maintaining cells. A three-dimensional matrix, such as a hydrogel material, is seeded with cells and placed in a bioreactor having two compartments. The matrix is supported between the two compartments by first and second porous materials, which engage opposing surfaces of the matrix. A first media stream having certain properties is propagated through the first compartment, where it contacts one surface of the matrix via the first porous material. A second media stream having different properties is propagated through the second compartment such that it contacts the opposite surface of the matrix via the second porous material. Through migration of each stream at least partially into the matrix, various controlled gradients may be established within the matrix, encouraging growth of the cells. Such gradients include osmotic pressure, oscillating osmotic pressure, hydrostatic pressure, oxygen tension, and/or nutrient gradients.

Abstract: A closed transparent photobioreactor having a dome and a staged column wherein the dome is used as a growth chamber to provide a large culture volume to land area used and a flow pattern inside the dome allows for the uniform distribution of light energy, thereby negating growth rate inhibiting ‘dark zones’. A pump delivers culture from the bottom of the column to a lower portion of the dome and drives circulation between the two components and an increase in mass in the dome results in a spillover from the top of the dome into the column. Once in the column, algaculture will be aerated at each stage before returning to the dome. The staged column also provides for semi-continuous harvest of algae through the application of froth flotation and various other separation processes.

Abstract: To provide a cell culture device, a cell culture system and a cell culture method capable of suppressing fluctuations in pressure in a culture fluid, and suppressing gas bubbles from flowing into a cell culture section. A cell culture device including: a cell culture section that cultures cells; a storage section that stores a culture fluid; flow paths that connect the cell culture section and the storage section; a fluid delivery device that is provided at the flow paths and that delivers the culture fluid from the storage section to the cell culture section; a pressure equalizing unit that is provided at the flow paths and that suppresses fluctuations in pressure imparted to the culture fluid delivered to the cell culture section; and a pressurization unit that is provided at the flow path at a flow outlet side of the cell culture section and that applies a specific pressure to the culture fluid.

Abstract: A biogas desulfurization device comprises an anaerobic system, a desulfurization liquid circulating system, an oxygen supply device and a desulfurization system, wherein the anaerobic system is used for generating biogas and filling the generated biogas into the desulfurization system, the desulfurization liquid circulating system is used for filling the desulfurization liquid into the desulfurization system and recycling the desulfurization liquid that has undergone the desulfurization operation, the oxygen supply device is used for filling air into the desulfurization system, and the desulfurization system which comprises at least one stage desulfurization tower group is used for carrying out the desulfurization operation on the biogas from the anaerobic system, the desulfurization operation is conducted by the desulfurization liquid received from the desulfurization liquid circulating system in an aerobic environment.

Abstract: A multilayered cell culture apparatus for the culturing of cells is disclosed. The cell culture apparatus is defined as an integral structure having a plurality of cell culture chambers in combination with tracheal space(s). The body of the apparatus has imparted therein gas permeable membranes in combination with tracheal spaces that will allow the free flow of gases between the cell culture chambers and the external environment. The flask body also includes an aperture that will allow access to the cell growth chambers by means of a needle or cannula. The size of the apparatus, and location of an optional neck and cap section, allows for its manipulation by standard automated assay equipment, further making the apparatus ideal for high throughput applications.

Abstract: The present application relates to systems and methods for processing organic material. The methods may include extraction of biochemical nutrients from organic material, such as food scraps. The method can include comminuting the organic material to form a slurry from components comprising liquid and organic material; combining the slurry with microorganisms, such as a yeast, under aerobic conditions to form a mixture of the slurry and yeast; aerating the mixture; and forming a biomass and a nutrient-rich broth, in which the biochemical nutrients are stabilized and anabolized. The systems may, in some embodiments, be configured to perform the methods of processing organic materials.

Abstract: Described herein is a process for producing saccharides and ethanol from biomass feedstock that includes (a) producing an enzyme composition by culturing a fungal strain(s) in the presence of a lignocellulosic medium, (b) using the enzyme composition to saccharify the biomass feedstock, and (c) fermenting the saccharified biomass feedstock to produce ethanol. The process is scalable and, in certain aspects, is capable of being deployed on farms, thereby allowing local production of saccharides and ethanol and resulting in a reduction of energy and other costs for farm operators. Optional steps to improve the biomass-to-fuel conversion efficiency are also contemplated, as are uses for byproducts of the process described herein.

Abstract: The present application relates to systems and methods for processing organic material. The methods may include extraction of biochemical nutrients from organic material, such as food scraps. The method can include comminuting the organic material to form a slurry from components comprising liquid and organic material; combining the slurry with microorganisms, such as a yeast, under aerobic conditions to form a mixture of the slurry and yeast; aerating the mixture; and forming a biomass and a nutrient-rich broth, in which the biochemical nutrients are stabilized and anabolized. The systems may, in some embodiments, be configured to perform the methods of processing organic materials.

Abstract: This invention provides methods and systems for the production of propanol. Specifically, the methods and systems of the present invention use symbiotic arrangement of anaerobic microorganism cultures for the production of propanol from syngas.

Abstract: The bioreactor is for use in performing biological and/or biochemical reactions and includes a vessel, an agitator, a reaction assembly, and a harvesting outlet. The vessel of the bioreactor includes several ports including a mixing port, a reaction port, and a harvesting port. The agitator extends through the mixing port into the vessel while the harvesting outlet extends through the harvesting port and permits the withdrawal of reaction medium to another vessel. The reaction assembly extends through the reaction port into the vessel and has multiple components including a gas conduit adapted to introduce gas into a reaction medium in the vessel, a sampling device adapted to remove a portion of the reaction medium from the vessel without contamination of the remaining reaction medium, and an introduction conduit permitting the introduction of at least the reaction medium into the vessel.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device and a method for concentrating pathogenic germs potentially present in blood products or derivatives and for detecting said germs comprising the following steps: (a) subjecting a sample of said blood product to a blood cell aggregating treatment, (b) eliminating the aggregates formed at step (a) by passing the treated sample over a first filter allowing through the contaminating germs but not the cell aggregates, (c) selectively lyzing the residual cells of the filtrate obtained at step (b), (d) recuperating the contaminating germs by passing the lysate of step (c) over a second filter to detect the contaminating germs possibly trapped.

Abstract: Self-sustaining, self-contained systems and methods for producing biofuels and for producing biofuel feedstock from algae. The system is carbon neutral or may be carbon positive, fixing more carbon than it releases to the atmosphere. In various embodiments, the system may be coupled to an existing carbon dioxide producing process to reduce or completely eliminate carbon dioxide output, making the existing system carbon neutral, and providing valuable and tradable carbon credits. The system may also comprise modular tiles comprising a biomass sandwiched between two panels and use a combination of microbes, nutrients, water, and sunlight to generate biological hydrocarbon compounds that can be used in almost any type of engine.

Abstract: Economic conversion of lignocellulose requires both the maximization of conversion of available carbohydrates, as well as minimization of process capital cost. Process intensification minimizes capital cost while preserving conversion yield by combining into a single step those unit operations that are conducted at similar conditions. Flowsheet variations are proposed that minimize process capital while maintaining overall conversion yield.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a process for the production of ethanol. The process includes performing liquefaction, saccharification, and fermentation steps to produce ethanol from an organic material. In one embodiment, the liquefaction step may include disposing a carbon-containing material within a first vessel, adding at least one enzyme to the first vessel, and incubating the first vessel at a first temperature for a predetermined time period. Next, the saccharification step can include adding at least one enzyme to the first vessel and then incubating the first vessel at a second temperature to form a liquefact in the first vessel. Then, in some embodiments, the fermentation step includes removing the liquefact from the first vessel and transferring the liquefact to a second vessel. Once in the second vessel, at least one additional enzyme, at least one nutrient, and a plurality of yeast cells can be added to the second vessel. Then, the second vessel is incubated to promote fermentation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of treating an off-gas stream (80) comprising NH3 and H2S to provide a sulphate stream (910), the method comprising the steps of: (i) providing a first off-gas stream (80) comprising NH3, H2S, CO2 and optionally one or more of HCN, COS and CS2; (ii) passing the first off-gas stream (80) to an incinerator (300) to oxidize NH3, H2S, and optionally one or more of HCN, COS and CS2 to provide a second off-gas stream (310) comprising N2, H2O, SO2 and CO2; (iii) scrubbing the second off-gas stream (310) with a first aqueous alkaline stream (380, 876a) in a caustic scrubber (350) to separate SO2 and a part of the CO2 from the second off-gas stream to provide a spent caustic stream (360) comprising carbonate and one or both of sulphite and bisulphite and a caustic scrubber off-gas stream (370) comprising N2 and CO2; and (iv) passing the spent caustic stream (360) to an aerator (900) comprising sulphur-oxidizing bacteria in the presence of oxygen to biologically oxidize sulphite

Abstract: The system for fermentation using algae of the present invention includes a first reactor and a second reactor being in fluid communication with each other. A first valve placed between the first reactor and the second reactor controls the fluid connection between the reactors. A gas inlet, in fluid connection to the first reactor, is located at an end opposite the second reactor. A devolatization unit or cell lysis chamber is connected to the second reactor by a second valve. A biomass stream having gas, liquid and biosolids contents passes through the first reactor with gas. The biomass stream mixes and dissolves the gas in the reactors. The cellular structure of the biomass stream ruptures in the devolatization unit, allowing the processed materials, such as oil, gas, and biosolids, to be harvested for use.

Abstract: Disclosed is a microfluidic chip and method using the same. The microfluidic chip comprises a substrate having a surface, and at least a tissue culture area formed on the surface of the substrate. The tissue culture area has a microfluidic channel formed by a plurality of connected geometrical structures (nozzle-type channels) having a predetermined depth. The microfluidic channel has an inlet and an outlet, which are at two ends of the microfluidic channel, for medium inputting and outputting, respectively. Additionally, at least an air-exchange hole is formed on the bottom of the microfluidic channel. By using the microfluidic chip for tissue culture, lateral flow speed and stress can be decreased, so as to prolong survival time of tissues (e.g. liver tissues).

Abstract: Methods for adapting or selecting microorganisms with increased product tolerance are provided. Additionally, a bioreactor capable of operation in either packed bed or fluidized bed is disclosed along with methods to use the bioreactor for culturing microorganisms adapted or selected increased product tolerance.

Abstract: This invention relates to a lignin sorbent, a lignin removal unit, a biorefinery, a process for removing lignin, a process for binding lignin, and a renewable material. The lignin sorbent includes a substrate, and a lignin binding material dispersed with respect to the substrate. The lignin binding process includes the step of adding a lignin binding material to an input stream, and the step of converting the input stream into a renewable material.

Abstract: Improved biomass-gasification methods and apparatus are described, for cooling hot syngas without relying on recycling cool syngas. In some variations, methods are provided for producing cooled syngas from a carbon-containing feedstock, comprising: gasifying the feedstock; feeding hot gas along with liquid water to a cooling device to accomplish humidification, thereby reducing the temperature (but not the enthalpy) of the hot gas; and then feeding the stream to a waste-heat recovery unit to recover energy and produce cool syngas. The invented methods and apparatus can prevent fouling of waste-heat recovery units. Additionally, these methods allow for effective management of tars produced during biomass gasification as well as improved water management.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for recapturing heat from a solar-assisted volatile fermentation product production process comprising harvesting a volatile fermentation product from a solar-assisted fermentation product production apparatus and utilizing a heat recovery apparatus for recapturing the heat produced during the solar-assisted fermentation product production process. The volatile fermentation product can be produced in an autotrophic organism or by a fermenting organism fermenting fermentable sugars from one or more sugar crops, starch-containing and lignocellulose-containing materials.

Abstract: The invention relates to the utilisation of fatty acid feedstocks with substantial free fatty acid content in the production of biodiesel by the use of microbial enzymes.

Abstract: A method to treat a lignocellulosic material including: pretreating the lignocellulosic material to produce a slurry; adding an alkali material to the slurry in a first conveyor; adding a first portion of an enzyme solution to the slurry while the slurry is in, entering or passing through the discharge of a second conveyor; transferring the slurry with the enzyme solution from the second conveyor slurry to a mixer; mixing the slurry with a second portion of the enzyme solution, and transferring the slurry with the enzyme solution mixed with the first and second portions of the enzyme solution to a first reactor vessel for enzymatic hydrolysis, wherein the viscosity of the slurry is reduced in the first reactor vessel.

Abstract: A process for production of biofuels from algae can include cultivating an oil-producing algae, extracting the algal oil, and converting the algal oil to form biodiesel. Extracting the algal oil from the oil-producing algae can include biologically rupturing cell wall and oil vesicles of the oil-producing algae using at least one enzyme such as a cellulose or glycoproteinase, a structured enzyme system such as a cellulosome, a virus, or combination of these materials.

Abstract: A multilayered cell culture apparatus for the culturing of cells is disclosed. The cell culture apparatus is defined as an integral structure having a plurality of cell culture chambers in combination with tracheal space(s). The body of the apparatus has imparted therein gas permeable membranes in combination with tracheal spaces that will allow the free flow of gases between the cell culture chambers and the external environment. The flask body also includes an aperture that will allow access to the cell growth chambers by means of a needle or cannula. The size of the apparatus, and location of an optional neck and cap section, allows for its manipulation by standard automated assay equipment, further making the apparatus ideal for high throughput applications.

Abstract: Techniques related to enhancement of CO2 absorption use selection of an enzyme coordinated with selection of an absorption solution having a pKa to enhance or maximize the CO2 capture rate. The techniques may use various relationships between process variables such as temperature, concentration, and so on, in order to provide efficient CO2 capture.

Abstract: A high concentration H2S elimination system and a method using the same are disclosed. The system of the present invention comprises: a chemical H2S elimination module with a gas inlet, a gas outlet and a liquid outlet, wherein H2 S-containing gas is introduced into the chemical H2S elimination module; a reagent storage unit containing an oxidant; a liquid spray unit, wherein the oxidant contained in the reagent storage unit is introduced into the chemical H2S elimination module from the liquid inlet thereof through the liquid spray unit; a bio-regeneration unit comprising a microorganism to regenerate oxidant and connecting to the reagent storage unit; and a sulfur-removing module connecting to the liquid outlet of the chemical H2S elimination module.

Abstract: The present invention provides a carrier device including a culture vessel and a flow channel, which have a closed structure, for supplying cell liquid or a culture medium into the flow channel; and a method of aseptically injecting liquid, such as the cell or the culture medium, into the culture vessel and the flow channel. The present invention provides a carrier jig 19 including a drive base 27, a culture vessel base 21 that holds a culture vessel 20, a culture medium base 32 that holds a cell bag 60 and the like for the culture medium and the cell, and a detachable flow channel 40, those of which are held by a lift 98 to be carried to a cell culture device. A part of the flow channel 40 and the cell bag 60 mounted on the carrier jig 19 are put into a clean space 78. The cell and the culture medium are supplied into the flow channel 40 by using the cell bag 60 and other bags in the clean space, and then, an injection port 89 is closed.

Abstract: A bioreactor system for growing commercial volumes of algae or other biomass in an enclosed, biosecure reactor vessel, the system having internal artificial growth light production as well as exterior solar energy capturing devices or the like designed to facilitate enhanced sunlight exposure for photosynthesis organism production. Magnetic and electromagnetic field generation systems and/or millimeter wave generating devices are integrated with the bioreactor system and its operation to substantially enhance growth rate and overall productivity.

Abstract: A multilayered cell culture apparatus for the culturing of cells is disclosed. The cell culture apparatus is defined as an integral structure having a plurality of cell culture chambers in combination with tracheal space(s). The body of the apparatus has imparted therein gas permeable membranes in combination with tracheal spaces that will allow the free flow of gases between the cell culture chambers and the external environment. The flask body also includes an aperture that will allow access to the cell growth chambers by means of a needle or cannula. The size of the apparatus, and location of an optional neck and cap section, allows for its manipulation by standard automated assay equipment, further making the apparatus ideal for high throughput applications.

Abstract: A novel UDP-Gal regeneration process and its combined use with a galactosyltransferase to add galactose to a suitable acceptor substrate. Also described herein are synthetic methods for generating Globo-series oligosaccharides in large scale, wherein the methods may involve the combination of a glycosyltransferase reaction and a nucleotide sugar regeneration process.

Abstract: When using the equipment and method in accordance with this invention, it is possible to implement biotechnological production e.g. in biorefineries in such a way that it is possible to make use of the phenomena of the gas-liquid interface and interfaces between other phases by means of a moving process solution and gas led into it. This way, production and post-treatment methods can also be integrated, and desired acceleration of reactions and cost reductions can be achieved.

Abstract: The present invention relates to processes and systems for the production of fermentative alcohols such as ethanol and butanol. The present invention also provides methods for separating feed stream components for improved biomass processing and productivity.

Abstract: A system of using carbonates, especially water-insoluble or sparing soluble mineral carbonates, for maintaining or increasing dissolved inorganic carbon concentrations in aqueous media. In particular, the system generates concentrated dissolve inorganic carbon substrates for photosynthetic, chemosynthetic, or abiotic chemical production of carbonaceous or other compounds in solution. In some embodiments, the invention can also enhance the dissolution and retention of carbon dioxide in aqueous media, and can produce pH buffering capacity, metal ions, and heat, which can be beneficial to the preceding syntheses.

Abstract: Biomass (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, and municipal waste biomass) is processed for use in the production of useful products, such as fuels. For example, systems can use biomass materials, such as cellulosic and/or lignocellulosic materials, to enhance the production of a product, e.g., the production of ethanol and/or butanol by fermentation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process and apparatus for purifying a molecule of interest from a heterogeneous clarified fluid mixture. The apparatus of the invention generally comprises a continuous perfusion fermentation system, a continuous particle removal system integrated with the perfusion fermentation system; and a continuous purification system integrated with the particle removal system, which is maintained under sterile conditions. The process comprises filtering a heterogeneous clarified fluid mixture by continuous ultrafiltration at a specific flow rate below the transition point of the molecule of interest in the pressure-dependent region of the flux versus TMP curve, wherein the specific flow rate is maintained substantially constant throughout the continuous ultrafiltration.

Abstract: A process for producing high purity 3-hydroxypropionic acid from a fermentation cell broth is described. The 3-hydroxypropionic acid can be converted to a variety of products, such as acrylamide, 3-hydroxypropionic esters, acrylic esters, and 3-HP amide. This process features a high degree of product flexibility, limited or no solvent recycle, discrete waste streams, an efficient water removal process, and efficient recovery of products and solvents with proven and scalable equipment.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and system for the hydrolyzation of ensiled biomass is disclosed. Ensiled biomass is processed in multiple phases, resulting in a liquid precursor hydrozate and a solid precursor hydrozate. The liquid precursor having significant economic value, and being suitable for uses such as, for example, lower cost and improved efficiency ethanol production. A method for lower cost, improved efficiency alcohol production that uses the resulting liquid precursor hydrozate being produced at distributed sources is further disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and systems for the production of one or more products from a gas stream produced in a methanol production process. The method comprises converting at least a portion of a methane feedstock to a substrate comprising CO and H2. The substrate comprising CO and H2 is anaerobically fermented in a bioreactor to produce one or more alcohols. The method and system may further include process for the production of methanol processes for the production of acetic acid.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus and a process for rapid, high-throughput analysis of fatty acids in a plurality of samples. The apparatus comprises at least one multi-vessel plate, wherein each vessel is a unit for holding a sample, or mixing and/or reacting a sample with one or more solvents or reagents; at least one matching multi-cap mat capable of sealing the vessels of the multi-vessel plate during the holding, mixing and/or reacting the sample; at least one multi-vessel plate holder having sealing units, whereby the multi-vessel plate holder, when the sealing units are engaged, presses the matching multi-cap mat onto the tops of the vessels in the multi-vessel plate sealing the vessels, so as to withstand high pressure and high temperature conditions. The process employs the apparatus that enables automated, high-throughput analysis of twenty-four fatty acid from a plurality of samples by gas chromatography flame ionization detection.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are bioreactor systems and methods of utilizing said systems.

Abstract: Low cost, efficient two-stage anaerobic digestion systems for the production of biogas (e.g. methane) are provided. During the first stage, biogas is produced in a first reactor by anaerobic microbes cultured in two phases: a high solids phase and a low solids phase. During the second stage, biogas is produced in a second reactor by a methanogen-rich anaerobic culture cultured in low solids medium. Removal of effluent comprising pH lowering reaction products assists in maintaining a suitable pH in the high solids phase. The transfer of effluent from the second reactor to the first reactor assists in maintaining a suitable pH in the high solids phase, in mixing of the high solids phase, and in reseeding the high solids phase with methanogens. Methane is produced in and recovered from both reactors.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for producing cells without injury and fat-soluble materials by from cell culturing in an inexpensive and highly efficient manner. The apparatus according to the present invention comprises a culturing device 10, a solvent device 20, a mixing device 30, a separation device 40, a fractionation device 50, a cell accommodation device 60, and a fat-soluble material solvent accommodation device 70.

Abstract: Methods of and device for separating germs from grains used for alcohol production are provided. The principle of density difference is able to be used to separate germs from a slurry. By adjusting the density and/or viscosity of the slurry, higher germ recovering rate is attended. The method of adjusting the density and/or viscosity includes recycling a cook-water to reduce the viscosity of the slurry before fermentation and pre-concentrating a whole stillage at an evaporator and adding a syrup to the whole stillage after fermentation. An air flotation unit is able to be used to increase oil and germ recovery rate.

Abstract: In relation to an automated nucleic acid processor and an automated nucleic acid processing method using a multi function dispensing unit, processing involving extraction and amplification of the nucleic acid, can be consistently, quickly and efficiently conducted at a low cost with the use of a multi function dispensing unit, while saving user's trouble without expanding the scale of the device.