Microbial membrane reactor for use in flow systems

US6461861B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• ABB AG · US

Inventors

• Henning Schillig · Braunschweig, DE
• Inga Schneider · Braunschweig, DE
• Christine Standfuss · Braunschweig, DE
• Sabrina Heim · Braunschweig, DE
• Tatjana Arnold · Braunschweig, DE
• Sean Keeping · Wegberg, DE
• Dieter Binz · Hirschberg, DE
• Albrecht Vogel · Oberkochen, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 22, 1999
• Grant date: Oct 8, 2002
• Expiry date: Nov 22, 2019

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S435/817
• WIPO field: Biotechnology
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A microbial membrane reactor for use in flow systems comprises a first element to receive the microorganisms and a second element to receive the flow channels. The two elements have planar interior surfaces which are pressed together separated by a membrane impervious to the microorganisms. The flow channels arranged in or on the surface of the second element serve to transport the liquid along the membrane so that the liquid can interact with the microorganisms arranged on the other side of the membrane. The geometry of the flow pathway and thus the geometry of the flow channels can be easily altered, in respect of the length, width and height of the channel, and adapted to practical requirements.