| abstract |
Processes, as well as associated systems, are disclosed for the biological conversion of CO into desired end products such as ethanol. The use of a plurality of perforated plates, for example in the riser section of a bioreactor, which are positioned substantially horizontally and normal to the upward flow of both a CO-containing substrate and liquid culture medium, can significantly improve CO utilization of the bacteria and consequently the overall process economics. The geometry of apertures in the perforated plates is an important determinant of their performance, with fractal patterns and other multi-edged shapes leading to particularly advantageous results. |