A mathematical model for gluconic acid fermentation by Aspergillus niger

The fermentation kinetics of gluconic acid by Aspergillus niger were studied in a batch system. A simple model was proposed using the logistic equation for growth, the Luedeking-Piret equation for gluconic acid production and Luedeking-Piret-like equation for glucose consumption. The model appeared to provide a reasonable description for each parameter during the growth phase. The production of gluconic acid was growth-associated. (C) 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.