Biochemical Engineering

Teaching combines theoretical, theoretical-practical, and laboratory classes, promoting the integration of knowledge, application, and reflection.

• Theoretical Classes: content is presented with examples and case studies, using active learning methodologies that encourage student participation and guided research.
• Theoretical-Practical Classes: students solve exercises and problems individually or collaboratively under the instructor’s guidance, applying concepts and developing analytical skills.
• Laboratory Practical Classes: involve the reading, planning, execution, and critical analysis of experimental work, culminating in the preparation of scientific article-style reports and the creation and presentation of a poster.

These methodologies foster autonomous, collaborative, and student-centered learning, in alignment with the pedagogical model of the program.

At the end of the course, students will be able to:

1. Identify the role of the bioreactor as a central element of a bioprocess and differentiate the bioproducts obtained.
2. Apply terminology, kinetic models, and stoichiometric/kinetic parameters in practical bioprocess contexts.
3. Select the most appropriate type of bioreactor, operating mode, and process conditions, and perform quantitative evaluations of biomass, substrate, and product evolution.
4. Analyze mixing and oxygen transfer mechanisms in bioreactors and evaluate their impact on process performance.
5. Solve applied problems related to stoichiometry, kinetics, mass balances, and bioreactor modelling.
6. Prepare scientific reports and communicate results effectively in both scientific paper and poster formats.
7. Reflect critically on the limitations of acquired concepts and acknowledge the need for continuous learning.

1. A Theoretical-Practical Component

   1. Stoichiometry and kinetics of microbial growth, product formation and substrate consumption.
   2. Determination of kinetic parameters of microbial growth, process yields (biomass/product), and maintenance coefficients.
   3. Classification of bioreactors. Typical geometries and operating modes: batch, continuous, and fed-batch.
   4. Modelling of ideal bioreactors and prediction of the evolution of state variables. Mass balances.
   5. Mixing and stirring in bioreactors.
   6. Mass transfer applied to preliminary bioreactor design. Aeration in bioreactors.
   7. Bioprocess applications: case studies.
   8. Problem solving and application exercises.

   B Practical Component

   • Laboratory work on bioprocesses.
   • Preparation of a scientific report in paper format.
   • Presentation of results in scientific poster format.

NAO