Question

The bench-top bioreactor comes under which type of bioreactor?

• A. Solid-state bioreactor
• B. Photo bioreactors
• C. Airlift bioreactors
• D. Stirred tank bioreactors

Hint:

Stirred tank bioreactors are versatile and commonly used in both research and large-scale fermentation processes, offering excellent mixing and aeration.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Stirred tank bioreactors are commonly used in both laboratory and industrial settings for various types of fermentation processes. Bench-top bioreactors are small-scale versions of these reactors, designed for research and development purposes. The key feature of stirred tank bioreactors is the presence of a motor-driven impeller that agitates the contents, promoting mixing and aeration of the culture medium.

(1) Stirred Tank Bioreactors:
- These bioreactors are widely used because they offer excellent mixing, optimal oxygen transfer, and controlled temperature, pH, and nutrient supply.
- Bench-top versions of stirred tank bioreactors are designed for small-scale, controlled experimentation.

(2) Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- Solid-state bioreactor (Option 1) is used for growing organisms in a solid medium, not in a liquid culture, and is different from stirred tank bioreactors.
- Photo bioreactors (Option 2) are designed for growing organisms that require light, such as algae, and are not typically bench-top models.
- Airlift bioreactors (Option 3) use airlift to circulate the medium and are different in design and application compared to stirred tank bioreactors.

Conclusion: The bench-top bioreactor is a small-scale version of a stirred tank bioreactor, which is ideal for controlled experimental conditions.