Nutrient feed
Nutrient feed
Antifoam feed
Base and acid feed
Raman Analyzer
Foam level in the bioreactor
Temperature in the bioreactor
Oxygen in the bioreactor
pH in the bioreactor
Optical density
Media
| Measuring point | Product | Alternatives | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Key instrumentation challenges in single-use bioreactors
Fermentation in single-use bioreactors offers flexibility, fast batch turnaround and lower cross-contamination risk because cleaning and sterilization steps are largely eliminated. The biggest challenge is achieving stainless-steel-level process visibility and control with disposable, pre-installed instrumentation, while ensuring accuracy, integration, and scalability. Instrumentation is therefore critical.
- Lack of standardization: There is no universal interface for sensors and controllers, creating integration challenges between bioreactor, sensor and automation suppliers.
- Sensor accuracy and stability: Disposable pH and DO sensors are practical and widely used, but may offer lower accuracy and narrower operating ranges than traditional reusable probes.
- Calibration and verification: Pre-calibrated sensors reduce setup effort, but users have limited possibilities for recalibration or validation once the bag is installed.
- Data quality for scale-up: Reliable, reproducible measurements are essential for process control, PAT implementation and technology transfer from development to production.
FAQ
