Downstream Processing in Biotechnology
Separationsprocesser i bioteknik

KBTN05, 7.5 credits, A (Second Cycle)

Valid for: 2024/25
Faculty: Faculty of Engineering LTH
Decided by: PLED B/K
Date of Decision: 2024-04-17
Effective: 2024-05-08

General Information

Main field: Biotechnology Depth of study relative to the degree requirements: Second cycle, in-depth level of the course cannot be classified
Main field: Food Technology and Nutrition Depth of study relative to the degree requirements: Second cycle, in-depth level of the course cannot be classified
Elective for: B5-pt, K4-p, MBIO1, MLAK1, MLIV2, W5-p
Language of instruction: The course will be given in English

Aim

This course has the primary goal of introducing students to the essential engineering principles involved in purifying bioproducts. Biochemical engineers are tasked with developing efficient and environmentally sustainable techniques for separating small and large biomolecules from complex fermentation mixtures.

The aim of this advanced course is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the systematic and quantitative design of integrated downstream processes. By the end of the course, participants will possess the tools and knowledge necessary to create a cohesive downstream process that effectively integrates multiple stages while achieving the required level of product purity.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
For a passing grade the student must

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of different techniques and processes used to separate and purify products in biotechnological applications.
• Apply the appropriate separation techniques based on the specific characteristics of the target product.
• Analyze and evaluate the yield and purity of the separated products.
•  The ability to perform bioprocess design and economics.

Competences and skills
For a passing grade the student must

• Evaluate the impact of various physico-chemical properties and operating parameters on the effectiveness of separation processes.
• Propose and discuss a purification plan for a product derived from a specific bio-based source material.
• Design and optimize downstream processes to achieve desired product purity, yield, and quality. This involves understanding the principles of process development, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Be familiar with the equipment and instrumentation used in downstream processing, such as chromatography systems, filtration units, centrifuges, and analytical instruments.
• Enhance their problem-solving abilities, learn how to identify and address challenges that may arise during downstream processing, and develop skills in troubleshooting and finding solutions to optimize processes.
• Present a comprehensive written report and give an oral presentation, describing a downstream process.

Judgement and approach
For a passing grade the student must

• Be capable of gathering information from diverse sources and evaluating it independently. This involves conducting research, analyzing data, and critically assessing the reliability and relevance of the information obtained.
• Be able to critically evaluate another project task, which requires them to analyze and assess the strengths, weaknesses, and effectiveness of a given project or task. This evaluation may involve identifying areas for improvement, suggesting alternative approaches, or providing constructive feedback.
• Possess the ability to select appropriate unit operations based on the information available. This involves considering factors such as the characteristics of the desired product, the properties of the raw material, and the desired separation or purification objectives.
• Be able to conduct risk assessments specifically related to bioseparation processes. This involves identifying potential risks and hazards associated with the process, evaluating their likelihood and severity, and implementing appropriate measures to mitigate or manage these risks effectively.

Contents

Bioproducts and raw materials, unit operations used in downstream processing, product and purity analysis, bioprocess design and economy, integration of product recovery with production process.

Examination details

Grading scale: TH - (U, 3, 4, 5) - (Fail, Three, Four, Five)
Assessment: Written examination, written report and oral presentation of projects, and compulsory participation in laboratory exercises

The examiner, in consultation with Disability Support Services, may deviate from the regular form of examination in order to provide a permanently disabled student with a form of examination equivalent to that of a student without a disability.

Modules
Code: 0117. Name: Written Examination.
Credits: 3.5. Grading scale: TH - (U, 3, 4, 5). Assessment: Written examination
Code: 0217. Name: Compulsory Assignments.
Credits: 2.5. Grading scale: UG - (U, G). Assessment: Written and oral examination of Projects.
Code: 0317. Name: Laboratory Work.
Credits: 1.5. Grading scale: UG - (U, G). Assessment: Laboratory Work

Admission

Admission requirements:

• KBKA05 Technical Biology or KBKA10 Biochemistry or KBKF15 Biochemistry or KMBF01 Molecular Cell Biology

Reading list

• Roger G. Harrison, Paul W. Todd, Scott R. Rudge and Demetri P. Petrides: Bioseparations Science and Engineering Second Edition. Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN: 978-0-19-539181-7.

Contact

Course coordinator: Frank Lipnizki, frank.lipnizki@chemeng.lth.se
Course coordinator: Roya Sardari, roya.sardari@biotek.lu.se