Advantages of fed-batch fermentation over batch fermentation for the production of PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates)

Higher PHA productivity

Fed Batch Cultivation:
Production of highest possible amount of PHA by balanced cell growth and PHA accumulation. Strategies:
Control of nitrogen limitation: i) No nitrogen limitation during the active growth phase, but it is introduced later to enhance PHA production. ii) Results: maximum specific growth rate achieved compared to the max specific growth rate in batch cultivation.

Higher PHA productivity cont.

Batch cultivation is not an ideals method for PHA production especially for organisms that cannot grow in nitrogen limitting condition.
PHA accumulate during initiation of nitrogen limitation. Some organisms (eg: Pseudomona oleovorans) loses its viability after the onset of nitrogen limitation. Results: death of cells during PHA accumulation stage.

Limits the production of by-products

By feeding the growth limiting substrate at the same rate as the substrate utilization by the organisms.
Avoid the production of by-product that related to the presence of substrate concentration. Thus, increase the efficacy of carbon flux towards PHA production.

Limits the production of by-products cont.

In fed-batch:
Growth limitation substrate (eg: nitrogen) can be control. Thus, production of by products can be control.

In batch:
Growth limitationsubstrate (eg: nitrogen) can not be control. Therefore, the high concentration of substrate can lead to production of more than one product of interset. Reduce the efficacy of carbon flux towards PHA production.