Kinetic model for batch cellulase production by Trichoderma reesei RUT c30.

A kinetic model for batch cellulase enzyme production by T. reesei from cellulose substrate is constructed from literature concepts and laboratory data. The key concepts included were four: (i) existence of primary and secondary mycelia; (ii) cellulase production by secondary mycelia only; (iii) the adsorption of cellulase (catalyst) on the particulate cellulose (substrate), and (iv) the decline of cellulose reactivity with extent of conversion. The laboratory batch data were biomass (particulate), substrate (particulate cellulose), and product (cellulase enzyme and reducing sugar) concentration vs. time. The kinetic parameters were evaluated simultaneously through a nonlinear fitting routine, and the resultant model is shown to fit the data well. The model's success validates the presumed need to include all four concepts in reactor analysis for cellulase production.