Dynamics of mathematical models for bioreactors

Bioreactors are vessels in which a biological reaction takes place. They are ideal devices to model many natural phenomena in ecosystems. Bioreactors are used extensively in the biological treatment of wastes and the manufacture of useful bio-products. If designed and operated correctly, a bioreactor can be a relatively cost-effective method for hazardous substance removal and bio-product manufacture. Mathematical models are valuable tools to study bioreactors, since they are mathematically tractable and the relevant experiments can be carried out. Therefore, bioreactor modeling has great potential for use in many fields, such as to assist in the design of equipment, to predict long-term behaviour, to interpret data, and to control and optimize the bioreactor. The objectives of this thesis are to develop mathematical models for bioreactors by capturing essential information on bioreactors, and then to analyse the developed models to predict the performance of bioreactors, which may provide a useful aid for improving the performance of bioreactors.