Laboratory-independent exploration of stirred bioreactors and their fluid dynamics

Abstract

Due to the steadily rising number of students and the simultaneous reduction in practical lessons in study programs, the need for alternative learning resources is increasing. In this work, a method is described which allows real laboratory equipment to be represented as web-based models, using a stirred bioreactor as an example. The bioreactor model that was developed allows students to explore the design and operation of stirred bioreactors independently of time, location and end device. Information associated with each bioreactor component is displayed on the model to help students become familiar with different bioreactor setups. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were embedded to enable students to understand the influence of different stirrers on flow behavior in the bioreactors. This online tool prepares students for subsequent practical work with bioreactors in the laboratory.