Sorbitol To Sorbose Bioconversion Process

Introduction

Sorbose is an important intermediate in vitamin C synthesis. Industrially it is produced by batch oxidation of D-sorbitol to L-sorbose by Acetobacter suboxydans. It is a simple oxidatron but very difficult chemically. The fermentation process features substrate inhibition and poses the problem of oxygen supply at high sorbose formation rates. Substrate inhibition problem have been addressed by designing model based, fed batch fermentations which were implemented to improve productivity of fermentation. A computer interface between the nutrient pump and the computer was fabricated which is capable to implement all types of nutrient feeding profiles. Oxygen limitation problem was eliminated by the addition of oxygen vector in the fermentation broth. Higher accumulation of sorbose and improved productivity was achieved by above modifications in the conventional batch process

Areas of Application

Testing of blood samples in clinical laboratories, Healthcare, Biochemistry, Immunology, Microbiology.

Advantages

User-friendly technology

Capital investment on infrastructure is not high.

Stage of Development

Commercialised

Inputs Required

Building: 10,000 sq. ft.
Power /fuel: 10,000 units/months
Utilities: Dehumidified room, cold room,sterile room
Water: 1,500 litres/day
Manpower: Total 40 including 4 technicians, 6 skilled and 30 unskilled
Raw material: Enzymes, Chemicals, Vials, Bottles & Packing material

Economic Data

Machinerry/equipment (FOB): US $ 250,000
Operational cost/year: US $ 400,000

Transfer Forms:

Know-how, Training, Marketing assistance

For further information please contact :

The Director
Technology Bureau for Small Enterprises
APCTT Building, Qutub Institutional Area
P.O. Box – 4575
New Delhi – 110016