ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the applications of kinetic modelling to fermentation and cellular processes. The net result of the many biochemical reactions within a single cell is the conversion of substrates to biomass and metabolic end products. It introduces the reader to the basic principles of the wide-ranging aspects of microbial growth kinetics and dynamics, from the basic principles to the more advanced concept of modelling. The stoichiometry of the individual reaction is the basis of any quantitative analysis. However, of equal importance is specification of the rate of the individual reactions. The chapter aims to derive general dynamic mass balances for the substrates, metabolic products, biomass constituents, and biomass. Biomass is most frequently determined by dry weight measurements. This can be done either using an oven or a microwave oven, with the latter being the fastest procedure. An important prerequisite for the measurement is that the sample is dried completely, and it is therefore important to apply a consistent procedure.
