Semiconductor gas sensors in bioreactor control

A simple semiconductor gas sensor (TGS 812) is used for the on-line measurement and control of indole during the production of l-tryptophan from indole and l-serine with immobilized E. coli cells. Indole is estimated in the reactor gas space. In combination with an automatic indole supply system, a feed-batch process became possible. The indole concentration was monitored and kept within the optimal range (300–600 mg l^?1). A simple gas-sensing electrode dipped in the reaction medium provides direct measurement of organic solvents and gases in the liquid. Such a system is suitable for on-line determination of ethanol (10–70 g l^?1) during continuous production of ethanol with immobilized yeast cells.