Modeling of a foamed emulsion bioreactor: II. model parametric sensitivity.

The sensitivity of a conceptual model of a foam emulsion bioreactor (FEBR) used for the control of toluene vapors in air was examined. Model parametric sensitivity studies showed which parameters affect the removal of toluene (as model pollutant) in the FEBR the most significantly, and enabled definition of the limits of the process. Detailed examination of the results indicated that the process is highly complex and that both mass transfer and kinetic limitations can coexist in the bioreactor system. These results will help with the optimization of the design and operation of FEBRs.