Continuous penicillin production by Penicillium chrysogenum immobilized in calcium alginate beads

Summary

A high penicillin-producing Penicillium chrysogenum strain immobilized in calcium alginate beads was used for continuous penicillin fermentation in a bubble column and in a conical bubble fermentor. The fermentation was limited by the growth rate, dilution rates and the stability of the alginate beads. The immobilized cells lost their ability to produce penicillin in the bubble column after 48 h from beginning of the continuous fermentation. In the conical bubble fermentor the immobilized cells remained active for more than 7 days. This bioreactor ensured a good distribution of nutrients and oxygen as well as a higher mechanical stability of the alginate beads.