Description

Course Description – Biochemical Technology

This course provides students with fundamental knowledge of biochemical technologies, focusing on the application of microorganisms, enzymes, and biological systems in industrial processes. It introduces the principles of biocatalysis, biochemical engineering, and sustainable biotechnology, with emphasis on the use of biological catalysts as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional chemical processes.

The course covers key topics including microbiology fundamentals, microbial cell growth, protein structure, enzyme activity, biocatalytic reaction mechanisms, enzyme kinetics, determination of kinetic parameters, the influence of temperature and pH on enzymatic reactions, immobilized biocatalysts, bioreactor and fermentor systems, membrane bioreactors, and industrial applications of biotechnology. Students also explore the principles of green chemistry and the role of biochemical processes in sustainable development.

Laboratory work provides practical experience in microbiological techniques, enzyme-catalysed reactions, kinetic analysis, and the evaluation of biochemical process parameters. Students learn to apply computational methods for reaction analysis and gain insight into the design and operation of biotechnological systems.

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to explain the principles of biocatalysis and biochemical engineering, evaluate the use of biological systems in industrial applications, analyse enzymatic reaction behaviour, select appropriate immobilization techniques and bioreactor configurations, and apply biochemical technology concepts to develop sustainable industrial processes.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding: • To identify the possibility of using microbial cells as biocatalysts. • To describe the complex structure of proteins. • To classify enzymes and list their main catalytic functions. • To predict how the use of enzymes instead of classic catalysts leads to more sustainable processes that are safer, more energy efficient and less wasteful. • To determine the kinetics of monosubstrate enzymatic reactions. • To use software to determine kinetic parameters. • To describe immobilization methods. • To describe different types of bioreactors/fermentors and to identify their advantages and disadvantages. • To describe the characteristics of membrane bioreactors and predict the possibilities of their application in industry.