Introduction - Bioprocess Engineering: Kinetics, Biosystems, Sustainability and Reactor Design - page 15

Nutrient Tanks

Penicillium
chrysogenum

Solvent

Spent solvent

Rotary filter

Seed
Fermenter

Fermenter
Ta n k s

Centrifugal
extractor

Surge Tank

Purification
column

Spent Mold

Centrifugal extractors

Evaporator

Spent solvent

Crystal wash

Slurry

Evaporator Solvent

Procain, HCl
solution

Vacu u m

Solvent

Centrifuge

Freeze drier

Mixing
tan k

Mixing
tan k

Screen

Crystalline
potassium
penicillin

Procaine
penicillin
product

Filter

FIGURE 1.5 Schematic of penicillin production process.

We must continually reexamine the prejudices the field has inherited from the penicillin
experience.
It is you, the student, who will best be able to challenge these prejudices.

1. 8. BIOPROCESSES: REGULATORY CONSTRAIN TS

To be an effective in bioprocess engineering, you must understand the regulatory climate
in which many bioprocess engineers work. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
and its equivalents in other countries must ensure the safety and efficacy of food and medi-
cines. For bioprocess engineers working in the pharmaceutical industry, the primary concern
is not reduction of manufacturing cost (although that is still a very desirable goal), but the
production of a product of consistently high-quality in amounts to satisfy the medical needs
of the population.