Introduction

As we know, in biotechnological processes different equipment is used to carry out chemical reactions in which microorganisms or other living cells participate. Two of the most used pieces of equipment are the fermenter and the bioreactor. Although both have certain similarities, there are also important differences that should be known.

What is a fermenter?

The fermenter is equipment used to carry out fermentation processes, which consist of the conversion of carbohydrates into lactic acid, ethanol, acetic acid, among others, by means of microorganisms such as bacteria or yeast. A typical fermenter usually has a tank of stainless steel with aeration system, temperature and pH control, and agitation.

What is a bioreactor?

The bioreactor, for its part, is a piece of equipment used to carry out processes of cell culture, in which living cells such as bacteria, animal or plant cells are used to produce proteins, antibodies, hormones, among others. Unlike the fermenter, the bioreactor usually has a feeding system, oxygen control, purification system and separation of the cells product of the reaction.

Differences between fermenter and bioreactor

• The fermenter is used specifically for fermentation processes, while the bioreactor is used for cell culture processes.
• While the fermenter requires microorganisms such as yeast or bacteria, the bioreactor requires living cells such as animal or plant cells.
• The fermenter usually does not have a feeding, oxygen or purification system for the cells produced; while the bioreactor does.
• Agitation is usually more important in the fermenter, since fermentation reactions usually require more movement and oxygen.
• The bioreactor is usually more expensive than the fermenter, due to the additional systems it requires.

Conclusion

In summary, the fermenter and the bioreactor are two different pieces of equipment that are used in the biotechnology industry for different processes. Although it is true that both share certain similarities, the differences are significant and it is important to know them in order to use the appropriate equipment in each case.

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