Towards a generic model structure of bioreactors

Abstract Model-based control of bioprocesses is a difficult task, mainly due to the associated modelling challenges. Therefore, robust controllers are a valuable solution, which efficiently allows for model uncertainties. Simplified generic models can thus be considered during controller design phases. In this direction, the paper proposes a methodological contribution towards a simplified batch or fed-batch bioreactor model structure. The first step defines a general straightforward framework of bioreactor model, based on its dynamical behaviour. The second characterises the specific growth rate of each process variable by a specified kinetics. This structure is validated in the particular yeast and penicillin production cases.