Finite element modeling of concentration profiles and metabolism of macro-encapsulated yeast

With increasing energy demands and pressures on the environment, ethanol can be a more viable alternative to oil, both in an economical and environmental way. Ethanol can be obtained from the fermentation of lignocellulosic materials. <I>Saccharomyces cerevisiae</I> has been the main subject of studies regarding this process.The inhibitory properties of lignocellulosic fermentation media, usually lead to the reduction of yields and rates of ethanol production. Cell encapsulation may be a solution to these problems, but it might cause mass transfer problems.To evaluate the potential benefits of macroencapsulation, concentration profiles for glucose, xylose, furfural and HMF were simulated in COMSOL Multiphysics 4.1 applying the Finite Element Method